Virat Kohli’s Costly Run-Out Marred India’s Day One in Mumbai Test
India’s hopes of salvaging a consolation win in the third and final Test against New Zealand suffered a major setback on Friday as they stumbled to 86 for four at stumps on the opening day in Mumbai. The hosts found themselves in a precarious position, trailing the Kiwis by 149 runs, after a series of unfortunate events, including a crucial run-out of star batter Virat Kohli.
With just minutes remaining in the day’s play, Kohli made a fatal error in judgment that resulted in his dismissal. Attempting to steal a single off a flighted delivery from Rachin Ravindra, Kohli pushed the ball towards mid-on and set off for a run. However, Matt Henry’s quick reflexes and accurate throw caught Kohli short of his crease.
The run-out was a major blow to India, who had already lost Yashasvi Jaiswal and nightwatchman Mohammed Siraj in the penultimate over of the day. Jaiswal was bowled around his legs by Ajaz Patel, while Siraj was trapped plumb in front for a golden duck.
Earlier in the day, India’s bowlers had put up a strong performance to dismiss New Zealand for 235. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar shared nine wickets between them, with Jadeja claiming 4 for 44 and Sundar taking 5 for 45. Daryl Mitchell top-scored for the BlackCaps with a gritty 82.
With New Zealand already holding an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, India will need to produce a remarkable turnaround in the remaining two days to avoid a clean sweep. However, the loss of Kohli and the team’s fragile batting lineup make that task appear daunting.
