New Zealand wins test match in India after 1988; beat Rohit's men by eight wickets

New Zealand achieved a historic Test victory in India after 36 years, defeating the hosts by eight wickets on the final day of the opening match in Bengaluru. Under the leadership of Tom Latham, the Kiwis dominated in all departments, marking their first win on Indian soil since 1988.

The visitors capitalized on a catastrophic Indian collapse in the first innings, where the hosts were bowled out for just 46 runs, setting the tone for a comprehensive victory. India, chasing a modest total of 107 in the fourth innings, were unable to withstand the steady partnership between Will Young (48*) and Rachin Ravindra (39*), who guided New Zealand to their target in 27.4 overs.

While India's Jasprit Bumrah fought valiantly, taking 2 wickets for 29 runs in 8 overs, his efforts were in vain as New Zealand's top-order batters resisted India's bowling attack. Young and Ravindra added 75 runs for the third wicket, overcoming Bumrah's early breakthroughs to secure the win.

This triumph marked only New Zealand's third Test victory in India in 69 years of touring, the last coming in 1988 under John Wright's captaincy. Before that, Graham Dowling had led New Zealand to their first Test win in India in 1969. Latham now joins this elite group of Kiwi captains with a Test win on Indian soil.

New Zealand Captains to Win a Test in India:
Graham Dowling (1969)
John Wright (1988)
Tom Latham (2024)

India's formidable home record—often described as a fortress—was breached as New Zealand controlled the match from the outset. India's dismal first-innings collapse was the turning point, and despite a late fightback, they couldn't recover from the damage.

New Zealand's victory is even more remarkable considering their history of struggles in India. Their last win came 36 years ago in Mumbai when Sir Richard Hadlee's ten-wicket haul helped the Kiwis to a famous win. This 2024 victory, however, was a complete team effort, with contributions from all departments.

India now faces an uphill task as they prepare for the second Test, scheduled for October 24 in Pune, where they will look to bounce back from this rare home defeat.