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India's dismal performance in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru has left captain Rohit Sharma disappointed and seeking answers. India's batting lineup crumbled to their lowest-ever home Test total of 46 runs, a humiliating performance that sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. This dismal score marks India's third-lowest Test total overall, following their 36 all-out against Australia in the 2020 pink-ball Test in Adelaide and 42 all-out against England at Lord's in 1974.
The collapse was orchestrated by New Zealand's pace duo of Matt Henry and William O'Rourke, who combined to dismantle the Indian batting order in a mere 31.2 overs during the second session. Rohit Sharma, however, took responsibility for the team's failure, acknowledging that his decision to bat first may have backfired. Despite the disappointment, he emphasized that occasional poor calls are acceptable in the context of a season.
However, the day was not entirely bleak for the New Zealand team. Riding on Devon Conway's impressive 91 runs, New Zealand surged into a commanding lead of 134 at stumps. As the match reached the end of day two, New Zealand continued their strong performance, reaching a comfortable 180-3. With Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell holding fort at the crease, the momentum clearly shifted towards the visitors, leaving India with a mountain to climb in the remaining days of the Test.
Source: 'It was my call to bat first, but...': Rohit Sharma on Team India's collapse