India has found themselves in a difficult position after losing to the New Zealand in the first match of the three-match series. They suffered a disappointing 8-wicket loss in the series opener at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
From the very beginning, things did not go India’s way as they were overwhelmed by the New Zealand bowlers. The Rohit Sharma-led side was bowled out for a mere 46 runs marking the lowest total ever recorded by the team in Asian conditions in the history of Test cricket.
The true standout for India was Sarfaraz Khan who achieved his maiden century for the team – finishing with an impressive 150 runs. Alongside Rishabh Pant who scored 99 runs, they resurrected India’s innings with a formidable 174-run partnership that handed the team the lead.
New Zealand clinched the first Test by 8 wickets. Following the dismissals of Sarfaraz and Pant, India’s batting order faltered once again, leading to an all-out total of 462 runs, which set New Zealand a target of just 107 runs.
The Kiwis comfortably chased down the target winning the match by 8 wickets and seizing a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series.
India’s hopes of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship final have taken a hit after the loss to New Zealand. Although they remain at the top of the table.
The path ahead is now more challenging for India Team. The Rohit Sharma-led side currently boasts eight wins from 12 matches with a percentage of 68.05, a drop from 74.24 prior to the first Test.
To secure a place in the ICC WTC final, Rohit’s team must win the next two games against New Zealand in Pune and Mumbai. Additionally, they need to avoid losing more than two matches against the Australian National Cricket Team in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
For India to qualify – they require at least four wins and two draws over their remaining seven Tests to achieve a PCT of 67.54, ensuring their spot in the final. However, a loss in more than two games in the ongoing cycle would end their hopes.