India's lowest declaration totals in 1st innings (Tests)
India thrashed Bangladesh 2-0 in the two-match series after winning the 2nd Test by seven wickets. The hosts chased down 95 on Day 5 at Kanpur's Green Park. The Kanpur Test will be remembered for India's aggressive batting as they recorded a run-rate of 7.36 across two innings. India declared for just 285/9 in the first innings, now their lowest declaration total.
285/9 vs Bangladesh, Kanpur, 2024
India bowled out Bangladesh for 233 in the first innings, after Day 2 and 3 were entirely washed out. The hosts took the aggressive route on Day 4, racking up 285/9d in just 34.4 overs. This is now India's lowest-ever total at the time of declaring in Tests. Notably, India also registered the fastest-ever 200 by a side in a Test.
291/9 vs Australia, MCG, 1948
India's second-lowest total while making declaration in first innings of a Test dates back to 1948. Batting first in Melbourne, Australia racked up 394 with ton from skipper Donald Bradman. Meanwhile, Indian captain Lala Amarnath took a surprising call to declare India's innings at 291/9 (69 overs). The hosts later won the match by 233 runs.
296/8d vs New Zealand, Cuttack, 1995
Facing New Zealand in Cuttack in 1995, India declared their first innings for 296/8 after batting 89.5 overs. Skipper Mohammad Azharuddin did this to enforce a result after rain played spoilsport on Day 2 and 3. However, the Kiwis also showed resistance on the final day. They were 175/8 when the two captains shook hands.
