• India’s decision to bat first in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand did not pay off as the top order struggled against the swinging red ball.

  • Virat Kohli got out for a 9-ball duck.

Fans troll Virat Kohli as the Indian batter goes for a 9-ball duck in Bengaluru Test against New Zealand
Virat Kohli goes out for a duck in first Test (Image Source: X)

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The first Test between India and New Zealand finally got underway on Day 2 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, after rain washed out the opening day without even a toss. Once play resumed, India won the toss and chose to bat first – a decision that raised several eyebrows, given the overcast conditions and forecasts predicting rain over the next few days. The move, seen by many as a gamble, would set the tone for a challenging day ahead for the Indian batters.

India’s batting falters against swinging conditions

India’s decision to bat first did not pay off, as the top order struggled against the swinging red ball. Tim Southee struck early, removing Indian skipper Rohit Sharma with a beautiful delivery that seamed back to hit the stumps. This early setback only increased the pressure on the incoming batters, and the conditions made it difficult for the Indian lineup to settle in.

A surprising move as Virat Kohli walks out at No.3

Amidst the top-order collapse, the crowd was surprised to see Virat Kohli walk out to bat at No.3. Traditionally, Kohli has batted at No.4 in the longest format of the game, a spot where he has excelled over the years. This marked his first appearance at No.3 after eight long years, having played 114 innings primarily in the middle order.

Kohli’s decision to bat up the order backfires

Unfortunately, Kohli’s change in batting order did not work as planned. He was dismissed for a 9-ball duck, much to the dismay of fans at the stadium. The dismissal came on the final ball of the 9th over, bowled by New Zealand pacer William O’Rourke. The bowler delivered a short-of-length ball on off-stump, utilizing his height to generate extra bounce, and the ball nipped back into Kohli.

Attempting to defend off his toes, Kohli got an edge off the top glove, and the ball flew towards Glenn Phillips at leg gully. Showing remarkable agility, Phillips dived forward to complete a superb low catch, sending the former Indian skipper back to the pavilion.

This was the first time in years that Kohli faced a duck against New Zealand, a team he last failed to score against in the infamous Mumbai Test in 2021. With this, Kohli’s average at No.3 in Tests remains a modest 16, reflecting his struggles at this position.

Also READ: IND vs NZ: Here’s why Akash Deep and Shubman Gill not playing the Bengaluru Test

Fans’ reactions flood social media after Kohli’s dismissal

Kohli’s early exit triggered a wave of reactions on social media, as fans did not hold back their disappointment. Many took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to express their opinions, with some praising the excellent bowling effort by New Zealand and others criticizing Kohli’s decision to change his batting order. The trolling was relentless, highlighting how expectations from Kohli remain high, despite his recent struggles in red-ball cricket.

Here is how fans reacted:

Also READ: IND vs NZ – Rain threat during first Test; here’s the Bengaluru weather forecast

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About the Author:
AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.