After a commanding display by New Zealand‘s Rachin Ravindra, who anchored their innings with a brilliant century, India responded with a determined effort on Day 3 of the first Test in Bengaluru on Friday (October 18). Trailing by 356 runs after a disastrous first innings, India’s top-order batters – led by the composed Virat Kohli and aggressive Sarfaraz Khan – showed grit to claw their way back into the match. At stumps, India stood at 231/3, still trailing by 125 runs, but with hope of mounting a more competitive second-innings score.

Rachin Ravindra’s masterclass propels New Zealand to 402

Rachin played a standout knock for New Zealand, demonstrating remarkable temperament and shot selection. Resuming the third day at 180/3, he continued to anchor the innings while the middle and lower order struggled. His brilliant 134 from 157 balls included 13 boundaries and 4 sixes, guiding New Zealand to a total of 402. Rachin was particularly impressive against spin, neutralizing Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav with ease, even as wickets tumbled around him. A spirited 65-run knock from Tim Southee provided crucial lower-order resistance, helping push the visitors beyond the 400-run mark, giving them a massive lead of 356.

Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan lead India’s strong response

Facing a massive deficit, India began their second innings with greater resolve. Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal added 72 runs for the first wicket before Ajaz Patel removed both openers. However, it was Kohli and Sarfaraz who brought stability. Kohli’s patient 70 from 102 balls provided the foundation for India’s resurgence, while Sarfaraz’s attacking 70* from just 78 balls showcased his ability to counter-punch under pressure. Their partnership of 136 for the third wicket revived Indian hopes, taking the team from 95/2 to 231/3 at stumps. Though Kohli fell to Glenn Phillips on the last ball of the day, Sarfaraz remained unbeaten, holding the key to India’s survival.

Also READ: IND vs NZ: Fans erupt as Rachin Ravindra lights up Chinnaswamy with a stellar century on Day 3 of 1st Test

India’s early wobble: First-innings collapse

Earlier, India’s first innings was nothing short of a nightmare. Their batting line-up crumbled to New Zealand’s lethal bowling attack, with Matt Henry spearheading a collapse by picking up a remarkable five wickets for just 15 runs. India’s struggles started early when captain Rohit was dismissed for 2, followed by the shocking exits of Kohli and Sarfaraz for ducks. None of India’s top or middle-order batters could withstand the pressure, with Henry and William O’Rourke tearing through the lineup. India was skittled out for a paltry 46 runs, handing New Zealand a commanding position in the match.

India’s challenge on Day 4: Chasing the deficit

Heading into Day 4, India faces the task of erasing the remaining 125-run deficit while building a competitive lead to put pressure back on New Zealand. With Sarfaraz well-set at 70*, India will be looking to their lower middle order, including Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul, to contribute valuable runs. New Zealand’s bowlers, especially Ajaz, who has picked up 2 wickets in the second innings, will be eager to break through early and take control. India’s fightback on third day has set up an intriguing contest, but much will depend on how they navigate the morning session on Day 4.

Here’s how fans reacted:

It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed a partnership this much in test cricket. Kohli & Sarfaraz are very different types of players, which makes it box office worthy for all viewers. The best thing about them is they are dictating the play without thinking about the scorecard. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/JnMWltV0Yv

— Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) October 18, 2024

You cannot ask for more in a day of test cricket than we have had today.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 18, 2024

It’s always trouble for Kohli going from 70 to 71st. We have seen it before.

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) October 18, 2024

Virat 🤝 Sarfaraz. PUMA boys powering through. #INDvNZ

— PUMA Cricket (@pumacricket) October 18, 2024

RO-KO 💔#INDvNZ #ViratKohli #RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/J0jWnkD1Zs

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) October 18, 2024

That was one entertaining day of test cricket. NZ still well ahead of the game, especially with the wicket of Kohli.

India still have so much quality batting to come, and will need someone, probably Khan to get a big 100.

KL Rahul is due also.

— Adam Bell 🇳🇿🇮🇹 (@AdamKerrBell) October 18, 2024

Stood strong and roared! 💪🏽 #WhistlePodu #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/EYrdX5HQOw

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 18, 2024

9000 test runs, Virat kohli showing great touch and timing with red ball. Fans must be enjoying watching him bat in banglore.

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) October 18, 2024

Sarfaraz…तोडलंस भावा 🙌#MumbaiMeriJaan #MumbaiIndians #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/irSAZa1J4v

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) October 18, 2024

Virat Kohli got out on the last ball of the day#cricket #ViratKohli #INDvNZ #Test #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/0fid4M79M5

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 18, 2024

Also WATCH: Ravindra Jadeja cleans up Glenn Phillips with a beauty on Day 3 of the Bengaluru Test

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