India’s cricket team faced a significant setback as they lost their first home Test series since 2012, with New Zealand clinching the series 2-0. The decisive victory came in the second Test match at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on October 26, 2024.
India’s woes in Home Test Series loss
New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner was the standout performer, taking a total of 13 wickets in the match. His exceptional spin bowling exposed the weaknesses in the Indian batting lineup, which struggled to cope with his deliveries. India was bundled out for 245 runs in the second innings, chasing a target of 359 runs.
Key Moments
- First Innings Collapse: India’s batting woes began in the first innings in Bengaluru, where they were all out for a mere 46 runs. This was the lowest total in their home Test history.
- Santner’s Dominance: Santner’s spin bowling was relentless, taking 7 wickets for 53 runs in the first innings and 6 wickets for 104 runs in the second. His performance was instrumental in New Zealand’s victory.
- Indian Batting Struggles: Apart from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored a valiant 77 runs, the rest of the Indian batsmen failed to make a significant impact. The team’s inability to handle spin was evident throughout the series.
New Zealand have defeated India! ✅
This is the first time New Zealand have beaten India on their home turf, marking India’s first home series loss in 12 years. A remarkable achievement for New Zealand! 🇳🇿🤯#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/gXFD24WHG2
— Cricket on TNT Sports (@cricketontnt) October 26, 2024
Historical Context
This victory marks the first time in 69 years that New Zealand has won a Test series in India. India’s unbeaten streak at home, which began in 2012, came to an end after 18 consecutive Test series wins. The last time India lost a home series was against England in December 2012.
The loss is a major blow to India’s aspirations of reaching the World Test Championship final. The team will need to regroup and address their batting issues, especially against spin, as they prepare for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
