In Wellington, the first day of the Test match between India and New Zealand belong to New Zealand. However, only 55 overs were bowled as day’s play has been called off because of the wet-outfield. But before rain-interrupted, New Zealand was all over the visitors as India was reeling at 122 for five with Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant batting in the middle.
New Zealand won the toss and opted to field first in Wellington:
New Zealand won the toss and put India to bat first owing to the overcast conditions. And as expected, the host pace battery was dominant in the field as India’s three wickets were down in no time. Firstly, the youngster Prithvi Shaw lost his wicket to veteran Tim Southee.
Soon, Cheteshwar Pujara was sent back to the pavilion, scoring 11 runs. While the most horrific wicket was of Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who lost his wicket to Test debutant Kyle Jamieson for just two runs.
However, Rahane tried to anchor the innings and ensured he held one end. Soon, Mayank Agarwal, who looked all set, also lost his wicket, playing somewhat a rash shot.
Hanuma Vihari also got out quickly while Rishabh Pant handled the situation with Kohli’s deputy before rain interrupted the game. Both of them played close to 14 overs.
Rahane remained unbeaten scoring 38* off 122 balls. On the other hand, the wicketkeeper-batsman also played slow innings after the second session, scoring 10* runs off 37 deliveries.
A memorable day for Test Debutant Kyle Jamieson:
The lanky pacer had impressed with his bowling attack in the ODI series and thus, earned the Test call. At Basin reserve, Jamieson continued bowling on correct areas, while accounting for Pujara, Kohli and Vihari’s wicket. He also claimed Agarwal’s catch.
On the other hand, Southee and Trent Boult picked one wicket each.
Meanwhile, Rahane, Pant, and Ashwin will have to stick to the basics, in a bid to led India to set at least a total of 250 runs.