46 all out: India Bowled Out for Their Lowest Test Total at Home

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Home Test Series

In a dramatic and unexpected turn of events, India was bowled out for a mere 46 runs in the first Test against New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on October 17, 2024. This score marks India’s lowest Test total at home and their third-lowest overall.

Match Overview

The match began with India winning the toss and electing to bat first under overcast conditions. However, the decision backfired as New Zealand’s pacers, Tim Southee and Matt Henry, exploited the moist pitch to devastating effect. India found themselves in trouble early, collapsing to 10/3 within the first few overs.

Batting Collapse to Record Lowest Test Total

The Indian batting lineup crumbled under pressure, with five batsmen dismissed for ducks. The top order, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul, failed to make an impact, and the lower order couldn’t provide much resistance either. Rishabh Pant top-scored with a mere 20 runs, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the collapse.

New Zealand’s Dominance

New Zealand’s bowlers were relentless, with Matt Henry and William O’Rourke leading the charge. Henry picked up four wickets, while O’Rourke claimed three, showcasing their ability to exploit the conditions and dismantle the Indian batting lineup.

Historical Context

This collapse is a rare and painful low in India’s cricketing history. The previous lowest Test total at home was 75 against the West Indies in 1987 in Delhi. Overall, India’s lowest Test total remains 36 against Australia in 2020 at Adelaide.

Impact on the Match

The early exit of India’s batting lineup has put them in a difficult position in the match. With a meagre total on the board, the team will now rely heavily on their bowlers to make a comeback in the series.

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