In the first innings, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 402 runs, largely due to some resilient batting. Indian bowlers Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja each took three wickets, while Mohammed Siraj contributed with two. Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah managed to take one wicket apiece. However, Ashwin’s performance has raised eyebrows, as he recorded one of the worst performances of his Test career in this match.

Bowling 16 overs in the first innings, Ashwin conceded 94 runs, achieving a disappointing economy rate of 5.87. More alarmingly, he took just one wicket, which reflects a significant drop from his usual standards.

An Unwanted Record

What makes Ashwin’s performance even more notable is an unwanted record he set during this Test match. He bowled the 80th over of the New Zealand innings, during which he conceded a staggering 20 runs. This over included three boundaries and one six, marking the first time in Ashwin’s illustrious Test career that he has allowed such a high number of runs in a single over.

Prior to this match, Ashwin had never given away more than 17 runs in a single over throughout his Test career. The last time he conceded 17 or more runs in an over was back in 2016. Additionally, this match marks the 20th time Ashwin has taken only one wicket in a Test match played in India, a statistic that further highlights his struggles in familiar conditions.

As the match continues, all eyes will be on Ashwin and the Indian team to see if they can turn the tide or if this will mark a continuing trend of difficulties in a pivotal Test series.

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On a day that would see India bowled out for a mere 46 runs—its lowest score on home soil—the implications of that decision became painfully clear. Rohit admitted after the day’s play that he misjudged the pitch conditions, stating, “I made a mistake in understanding the pitch.”

A Decision that Could Change History

Rohit’s choice has not only led to a dismal batting display but has also reignited hopes for New Zealand to achieve something monumental. The significance of this match lies in a 36-year gap since New Zealand last won a Test match in India, which dates back to 1988 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. If they manage to clinch victory in Bengaluru, it will not only mark a historic win but will also make the match unforgettable for head coach Gautam Gambhir.

With New Zealand poised to capitalize on this opportunity, the cricketing world watches closely. Rohit’s decision to bat first could prove to be a pivotal moment, reminiscent of a self-inflicted wound—some might even say a cricketing “suicide”—that might alter the trajectory of the game.

The Stakes for Gautam Gambhir

For Gambhir, leading the team to a historic defeat after such a long drought would be a heavy burden. Having recently taken on the role of head coach, this Test could become a defining moment in his career. With India’s batting lineup faltering, the prospect of a New Zealand victory becomes increasingly tantalizing.

Is There Hope for Team India?

Despite the gloomy outlook, it is essential to remember that cricket is notoriously unpredictable. With one innings left to play in this match, Team India still has a chance to turn the tide and salvage the game. However, based on current performance and the statistical weight of history, the likelihood of rewriting the narrative appears slim.

As the match progresses, fans and analysts alike will be glued to their screens, pondering whether Rohit Sharma’s decision will go down as a historic blunder or a catalyst for change in the dynamics of Indian cricket.

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