New Zealand’s victory over India in the first Test at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has reignited discussions about India’s past defeats against the Black Caps on home soil.
Instances when India lost a home Test against New Zealand
Being a dominant force in Test cricket, India have lost to New Zealand at home only three times. Here’s a look at those instances:
1) Nagpur, October 1969: New Zealand wins by 167 runs
In a remarkable performance, New Zealand secured their first-ever Test victory in India at Nagpur. The Kiwis posted a formidable total of 314 runs in their first innings, with contributions from their top-order batters. In response, India managed only 257 runs. During their second innings posted 214 on the scoreboard, setting India a 277-run target. However, India could manage only 109 runs, handing New Zealand a comprehensive victory by 167 runs. This match marked a significant milestone as it was New Zealand’s first Test win on Indian soil.
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2) Mumbai, November 1988: New Zealand wins by 136 runs
The second defeat came in Mumbai when New Zealand triumphed by 136 runs at Wankhede Stadium. After setting a target of 282, New Zealand’s bowlers showcased their skills, dismissing India for just 145 in their second innings. Bowling all-rounder Jony Bracewell was adjudged Player of the Match for his 8-wicket haul and 82 runs in the second Test of the series.
3) Bengaluru, 2024: New Zealand wins by 8 wickets
India faced their most recent defeat against New Zealand during the first Test of the ongoing series. After bowling India out for a historic low of just 46 runs in the first innings, the Black Caps took a commanding lead with their total of 402. Despite India’s fightback in the second innings with a score of 462, they set a target of only 107 for New Zealand, which was successfully chased down within 28 overs for the loss of 2 wickets.
The win in Bengaluru not only ended New Zealand’s 36-year long wait for a Test win in India but also serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of cricket between these two teams.
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