The India-New Zealand Test cricket rivalry has been marked by mutual respect and competitive matches. In October 1999, New Zealand toured India for a three-Test series, with the first Test taking place in Mohali.
The match began with a delayed start due to a damp pitch. New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming won the toss and elected to field. India’s batting lineup struggled against the Kiwi bowlers, with Dion Nash taking 6/27 as India was bundled out for just 83 runs in their first innings.
However, India’s bowlers responded strongly, with Javagal Srinath taking 6/45 to dismiss New Zealand for 215 runs in their first innings. Openers Devang Gandhi and Sadagoppan Ramesh then put on a 137-run stand for India, followed by a 229-run partnership between Rahul Dravid (144) and Sachin Tendulkar (126*). Sourav Ganguly’s unbeaten 64 helped India declare their second innings at 505/3, setting New Zealand a target of 374 runs.
Fleming led New Zealand’s resistance with a determined 73-run knock, but India’s bowlers kept the pressure on. Despite their best efforts, New Zealand ended their second innings at 251/7, drawing the Test match.
Nash’s spell of 6/27 remains one of the standout performances in New Zealand cricket history. His remarkable swing and seam bowling dismantled India’s batting lineup, showcasing his ability to exploit the conditions in India, where seam bowlers often struggle.
The Mohali Test was a testament to the competitive nature of the India-New Zealand rivalry. Both teams displayed resilience and determination, with Nash’s bowling performance standing out as a defining moment in the match.
