NZ vs IND: 1st Test – Three key takeaways as visitors bite the dust

India came up with a poor performance in the first Test against New Zealand at Wellington, with the hosts outmatching them in every department of the game. Tasting a massive 10 wicket defeat, the visitors will have a lot to ponder upon. Conditions in Christchurch will only get tougher and the batsmen, in particular, will have to pull up their socks.

Here we take a look at the three key takeaways from India’s 10 wicket loss in Wellington:

A disappointing batting performance

In the first innings, the top 4 Indian batters could only contribute 63 runs before walking back to the pavilion. In the second innings as well, they couldn’t fare much better, managing to score only 102 runs. A lack of a steady partnership in both the innings seriously damaged India. Rahane strived hard but it simply wasn’t enough for India to mount a fightback. Hanuma Vihari and Rishabh Pant also showed some character, but the failure of the batting unit was the key reason for India’s defeat.

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Southee’s heroics with the ball

Southee was the star performer with the ball for the Kiwis, picking up 9 wickets in the match. He was adjudged man of the match for his performance. Picking a 5-fer in the second innings, he got the crucial scalps of Agarwal, Pujara, Vihari and Pant. Trent Boult and debutant Kyle Jamieson also gave him able backup as the Kiwi bowlers completely dominated the visitors.

Lacklustre Bumrah struggles again

Jasprit Bumrah had the worst showing of his career during the ODI series, going wicketless. His torrid form continued in the opening Test. Many believed that Bumrah would put the disappointment of the ODIs behind in the longest format. But his bowling again lacked the zip to trouble the batters. Bowling 26.4 overs in the match, he only managed to pick up 1 wicket.