New Zealand vs India, Day 1: List of key takeaways
New Zealand made the most of the conditions to make India reel under pressure on Day 1 of the first Test in Wellington. On a rain-hit day, batting was difficult and India managed 122/5 in 55 overs. Kyle Jamieson (3/38) wrecked havoc and made sure India do not build momentum. Here are the key takeaways.
New Zealand pacers strike the right chords in desired conditions
India had to face windy and overcast conditions at the Basin Reserve. New Zealand bowlers bowled in attacking zones to keep India guessing. Also, the pitch offered bounce and carry. Tim Southee made most work of Prithvi Shaw's poor footwork to strike first. Jamieson's extra bounce rattled Cheteshwar Pujara, before getting Virat Kohli going for an expensive drive with the bounce affecting him.
Debutant Jamieson a real deal in Test cricket
Debutant Jamieson filled up Neil Wagner's absence with a sense of panache. The 6 foot 8 inches tall pacer stuck to the basics and kept carving out attacking deliveries. After clinching wickets of Pujara and Kohli, the pacer got Hanuma Vihari edging a fuller delivery to give New Zealand the onus on the first Day. It has been a dream debut for Jamieson.
Mayank and Rahane show some solidity on offer
Mayank Agarwal did not look convincing while facing the premier pacers. He got squared up often and there was a sense of vulnerability. However, he hung on and scored 34 from 84 deliveries. India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane showed his craft away from home. The going was tough but Rahane got a composed 38* from 122 deliveries to make sure India stay afloat.
How did Day 1 pan out?
India lost Shaw (16) early, before Mayank and Pujara were looking to settle in. However, Jamieson struck in quick succession to dismiss Pujara and Kohli. India were reeling at 40/3. Mayank and Rahane added a 48-run stand from there on. However, Trent Boult dismissed Mayank, before the Kiwis got back to dismiss half of this Indian side. Rishabh Pant (10*) is battling alongside Rahane.
