New Zealand has achieved a historic victory on Indian soil, breaking a 36-year drought with an eight-wicket triumph in the opening Test match. The Black Caps now lead the three-match series 1-0.
After India’s dismal performance in the first innings, where they were bowled out for a mere 46, New Zealand responded with a solid 402. The hosts, however, fought back in the second innings, posting a challenging 462.
Needing 107 runs to win on the final day, New Zealand faced a hostile opening spell from Jasprit Bumrah. However, Will Young (48 not out) and Rachin Ravindra (39 not out) steadied the ship, adding 75 runs for the third wicket to guide the team to victory in just 27.4 overs.
New Zealand’s last Test triumph in India came way back in 1988 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where they defeated the hosts by 136 runs. India had won that three-Test series 2-1.
The second Test of the series is scheduled to begin in Pune on October 24.
