Anil Kumble expressed disappointment with India’s batting performance in the 1st Test against New Zealand, emphasizing the need for adaptability to conditions. He felt that India missed a Cheteshwar Pujara-like approach, who is known for his solid defensive technique and ability to anchor the innings ¹.
India’s batting collapse was drastic, with the team getting bowled out for just 46 runs, their lowest total at home, surpassing the previous low of 75 against the West Indies in 1987 ² ¹. The absence of Shubman Gill led to a reshuffled batting order, with Virat Kohli moving up to bat at No. 3, but he fell for a duck ¹.
Kumble’s concerns highlight the importance of application and strategy in Test cricket. The Indian team’s inability to cope with New Zealand’s pace attack, led by Matt Henry (5/15) and William O’Rourke (4/22), was evident ² ¹. The team’s collapse began early, with Tim Southee dismissing Rohit Sharma for 2 runs, followed by O’Rourke’s dismantling of the middle order ¹.
