New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra plays a shot during the fifth and final day of the first Test cricket match between India and New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. — AFP
New Zealand secured their first win in India in 36 years without the injured Kane Williamson, and captain Tom Latham expressed gratitude to Rachin Ravindra for stepping up in the absence of the batting mainstay. Ravindra, whose parents are from Bengaluru, scored a commendable 134 in New Zealand's first-innings total of 402, following their dismissal of India for just 46. India responded with 462, setting a target of 107, which the Black Caps achieved with an eight-wicket victory on Sunday, thanks largely to Ravindra's calm demeanor.
"Our first two innings were exceptional, the way we managed to set up the match with our bowling and sustained pressure," Latham told reporters. "With the bat, we formed some crucial partnerships, which were vital in the context of the match. Rachin played a significant role in that. His 137-run partnership with Tim Southee, a number nine batsman, was outstanding." Latham also praised Ravindra's composure in the morning session when the game was in the balance, noting that his calm demeanor was crucial for the team's morale.
Williamson, New Zealand's top Test run scorer, remains uncertain due to a groin injury as the series moves to Pune before concluding in Mumbai. "Anyone of Kane's caliber, if he's fit and able to return, would be a great boost," Latham said. "Selection dilemmas are always positive, and we hope he recovers quickly and joins us as soon as possible."
Despite the loss, India had their own standout performers, with Sarfaraz Khan scoring 150 and Rishabh Pant 99, which kept their hopes alive. "Some of the shots they played, knowing we were 350 runs behind, shows their intent and approach," captain Rohit Sharma said. "Even if we find ourselves ahead in the game, we won't change our attitude. When we're behind, we'll continue to apply pressure on the opposition." Recent Test matches have demonstrated this approach, and it will remain unchanged.
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