New Zealand pacer Matt Henry was the star of the second session on Day 2 of the first Test against India, showcasing remarkable skill and athleticism. His devastating spell left India shattered and ultimately dismissed the hosts for one of their lowest-ever totals in Test history at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Henry’s combination of precise bowling and brilliant fielding played a key role in New Zealand’s dominance, bringing them within touching distance of a historic collapse for India.

Matt Henry’s early breakthroughs spark India’s downfall

Henry was in sensational form from the get-go, setting the stage for India’s collapse immediately after the lunch break. On the very first ball of the second session, Henry struck gold, dismissing the dangerous Ravichandran Ashwin for a golden duck. The delivery, full and swinging in late, proved too good for Ashwin, who had no answer as the ball rattled into his stumps. This breakthrough only heightened Henry’s dominance as he continued to apply relentless pressure.

Soon after, in the 26th over, he removed Rishabh Pant, who had shown some resistance, with a beautiful outswinger that found the edge and was caught behind. Pant’s dismissal for 20 marked the tipping point in India’s innings, and Henry was not done yet. Before Ashwin and Pant, Henry claimed the prized scalp of Ravindra Jadeja and Sarfaraz Khan. His spell of disciplined and attacking fast bowling dismantled India’s middle order, leaving them in complete disarray.

Henry’s sensational running catch to send Jasprit Bumrah back

Henry wasn’t just dominating with the ball; his incredible athleticism in the field was on full display in one of the most memorable moments of the match. As India languished at 40/8, Jasprit Bumrah decided to throw caution to the wind, attempting a wild heave against a short ball from William O’Rourke. The ball soared high into the air, seemingly headed towards safety at deep square leg.

However, Henry, stationed at fine leg to catch a breather, had other plans. With lightning speed, he sprinted across the outfield, covering significant ground to get underneath the ball. Just as it seemed like the chance would evade him, Henry dived full-length and completed a stunning low catch, plucking the ball inches off the ground. The crowd roared in appreciation as Bumrah, caught for just 1, made his way back to the pavilion. Henry’s incredible catch not only showcased his versatility but also highlighted New Zealand’s all-round brilliance on the field.

Here’s the video:

pic.twitter.com/xLpYFgD0c0

— ViratKingdom (@kingdom_virat1) October 17, 2024

Also READ: Netizens in shock as New Zealand packs India for their lowest-ever total at home on Day 2 of Bengaluru Test

Henry’s five-wicket masterclass ensures India’s collapse

Henry’s day was far from over, as he returned to wrap up India’s innings in style. Having already dismantled India’s top and middle order, Henry secured his well-deserved five-wicket haul by dismissing Kuldeep Yadav with another exquisite piece of bowling. Kuldeep, trying to fend off Henry’s probing lines, was caught behind after edging a delivery that nipped away off the seam. This dismissal marked India’s lowest-ever total at home in Test cricket – just 46 runs, surpassing their previous record of 75 against the West Indies in 1987.

Henry’s final figures of 5/15 from his spell encapsulated a brilliant performance where he not only dominated with the ball but also contributed to the collapse with his fielding. India’s entire innings lasted a mere 31.2 overs, with only two batters, Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal, managing to reach double digits. By the time New Zealand came out to bat, they were in complete control of the match, finishing the second session comfortably at 78/1, with a 32-run lead in their favour.

Also READ: 5 lowest totals for India in Tests on home soil

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