Sarfaraz’s maiden Test hundred boosts India to 344/3.
Playing in just his fifth Test match, the Mumbai player, resuming his innings on 70, expertly handled the overcast conditions and tamed the New Zealand bowlers with remarkable skill. India added 63 runs before the first drinks break, showcasing a strong performance and solidifying their position in the match. Sarfaraz’s ability to adapt to the challenging weather and bowlers highlighted his growing confidence and composure at the crease, contributing significantly to India’s score as they aimed for a commanding lead. His innings demonstrated not only his talent but also the resilience of the Indian batting lineup.
Bengaluru: India continued their remarkable resurgence in the opening Test against New Zealand, with Sarfaraz Khan achieving his maiden Test hundred, propelling India to 344 for three at lunch on the fourth day. The match, played under cloudy skies and challenging conditions, saw Sarfaraz (125 runs off 154 balls) and Rishabh Pant (53 runs off 56 balls) at the crease when rain forced an early lunch break. The duo added an impressive 113 runs for the unbroken fourth wicket in just 22 overs, showcasing their skill and determination.
Resuming the innings at 231 for three, with a deficit of 125 runs, India had narrowed the gap to just 12 runs by the time lunch was called. The sight of Rishabh Pant walking out to bat alongside Sarfaraz likely eased the tension in the Indian dressing room, especially after Pant had missed play on the third day due to a knee injury he sustained while keeping wickets on the second day.
Sarfaraz emerged as the clear standout in the first session, demonstrating his ability to adapt and thrive in tough conditions. Playing only his fifth Test, he resumed his innings on 70 and expertly handled the New Zealand bowlers, accumulating 63 runs before the first drinks break. His technique was particularly impressive as he nullified the Kiwis’ pacers, primarily using late cuts to score. Notably, 40 of his first 100 runs came from shots played between point and third man, utilizing a variety of late cuts that left the bowlers searching for answers.
When the spinners came into play, Sarfaraz deftly employed sweeps and nudges to find runs between square leg and fine leg, amassing 39 runs in that area alone. Tom Latham, New Zealand’s captain, struggled to set an effective field against Sarfaraz’s mastery, as the young batsman dictated terms with his precision and placement. The moment that epitomized his innings came when he executed a polished backfoot punch through covers for a boundary off Tim Southee. Ecstatic, Sarfaraz ran around the field, celebrating the milestone with uncontainable joy.
At the other end, Rishabh Pant, understandably cautious at the start, was involved in a near-mix-up with Sarfaraz, only saved by an erratic throw from wicketkeeper Tom Blundell. However, once he settled in, Pant’s confidence surged. He unleashed his attacking style, notably clobbering left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel for two sixes, signaling his return to form and ability to support Sarfaraz effectively.
Pant quickly reached his fifty, coming off just 55 balls, punctuated by a powerful cover drive off Glenn Phillips. Their partnership was not just significant in runs but also in momentum, as India accumulated 113 runs without losing a wicket until the skies opened up at 11:01 AM, halting the game.
This partnership showcased the depth and resilience of the Indian batting lineup, highlighting how they had regrouped after early challenges in the match. The duo’s performance under pressure not only bolstered the team’s score but also reflected the players’ individual capabilities and growing confidence as they faced a strong New Zealand bowling attack.
As the rain paused play, the atmosphere around the stadium was electric, with fans celebrating Sarfaraz’s maiden Test century and eagerly anticipating the continuation of the match. The Indian team, buoyed by their batting display, would be looking to build on this momentum as they aimed to take the lead in the Test series.
The series against New Zealand is crucial for India, as they aim to strengthen their position in the ICC Test rankings and build upon their recent performances. Sarfaraz’s hundred, along with Pant’s aggressive batting, signals a promising future for the Indian batting lineup, particularly as they integrate younger players into the mix.
As the rain continued to fall, the players retreated to the dressing room, reflecting on a session that had shifted the balance in their favor. The rain delay offered a moment for contemplation, but both Sarfaraz and Pant, along with their teammates, were determined to return to the field and capitalize on their strong start.
When play resumes, the Indian batting order will aim to maintain their aggression while seeking to push past New Zealand and set a challenging target for the visitors. The spirit and resilience displayed by Sarfaraz and Pant are indicative of a team ready to embrace the challenges ahead, positioning India for a strong performance in this Test series.