India suffered a shocking batting collapse against New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru, being dismissed for just 46 runs, their lowest total ever on home soil. This was a historic low, surpassing previous records set in Asia, and marks India’s third-lowest score in Test cricket overall. The New Zealand fast bowlers exploited overcast conditions, with rain interruptions adding to India’s struggles. Four of India’s top seven batsmen were dismissed for ducks, further highlighting the dominance of New Zealand’s bowling attack.
This disappointing score also placed India on a list of unfortunate records, with their earlier low of 36 against Australia in 2020 still fresh in fans’ memories.
India’s total of 46 against New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru on October 17, 2024, shocked cricket fans globally. The collapse, which occurred within a single session, highlighted significant vulnerabilities in India’s batting lineup. New Zealand’s bowlers exploited early moisture in the pitch, and rain delays only worsened India’s fragile start.
Four Indian top-order batters, including captain Rohit Sharma, were dismissed for ducks, marking the first time such a disastrous stat was recorded in a home Test. This innings now stands as the lowest total ever in Asia, surpassing the West Indies’ 53 against Pakistan in 1986.
India’s previous low in Test cricket was 36 against Australia in Adelaide in 2020, and it was surprising to see another historic collapse so soon after. This new low prompted concerns over the batting unit’s handling of pressure and conditions.
This result puts India in an awkward position as they look to recover in the remainder of the series against a formidable New Zealand side.