IND vs NZ: Indian dream yet not over, final drama at Chinnaswamy

The ongoing Test match between India and New Zealand (IND vs NZ) is turning into a thrilling contest. The fourth day ended dramatically as umpires called for early stumps due to bad weather, with heavy grey clouds looming over the M Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium. The heroic innings of Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant were cut short after the second new ball was introduced. India’s batting collapse saw them go from 408/4 to 462 all out, with New Zealand taking six wickets for just 54 runs. However, the game is far from over, and there’s still hope for India to secure a historic win.

If the weather clears up on the final day, New Zealand’s innings will start as scheduled. The Kiwis need 107 runs with all ten wickets in hand to win the Test match. While the target may not seem too difficult, the surface at the M Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium is expected to become tricky for the batters on the fifth day.

India’s bowlers will need to capitalize on the overcast conditions in Bengaluru. With rain on the fourth day, moisture on the ground and pitch could make batting challenging for New Zealand. The Kiwis may try to score quickly early on, but if India’s bowlers take advantage of the weather, the game could turn in India’s favor, much like the first innings when New Zealand restricted India to 46 runs.

India will rely on Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah with the new ball to put pressure on New Zealand. If they can strike early in the first session, it could create significant pressure on the Kiwi team. Fielding will also be crucial, as India will need to convert half-chances into wickets. For India to secure victory on the last day, every aspect of their game—bowling, fielding, and tactics—will need to be at its best.