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Matt Henry's relentless bowling performance, featuring his 100th Test wicket and a five-wicket haul, played a pivotal role in New Zealand's triumph over India in the Bengaluru Test. Henry, known for his accuracy and consistency, was pleasantly surprised by the amount of movement on offer in the pitch, making it difficult for the Indian batsmen to adapt. He credited his team's relentless approach, echoing the discipline and accuracy he observed from the best bowlers in the world, who relentlessly apply pressure even on seemingly flat wickets.
Joining forces with fellow New Zealand pacer Will O'Rourke, who also claimed four wickets in his Test debut in India, Henry formed a formidable bowling duo. Henry praised O'Rourke's height as a crucial factor in his success, contributing to the steep bounce he generated. He also commended O'Rourke's consistent pace and commitment to the team, attributes that had earned him recognition in domestic cricket before his international breakthrough.
The New Zealand team's performance was further enhanced by their impeccable catching, which made a significant difference in restricting India's scoring. Henry's five-wicket haul, a rare feat in India, cemented his place as a key contributor to New Zealand's strong position in the Test match. Despite the rain-affected conditions, Henry remained optimistic about the team's ability to maintain pressure on India. He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of Indian cricket, emphasizing the importance of remaining focused and not becoming complacent, even with a strong lead.