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New Zealand have etched their name in the history books with a remarkable bowling performance, defending a mere 147-run target against India at the Wankhede Stadium during the 2024/25 season. This latest triumph has positioned New Zealand second on the all-time list of lowest totals successfully defended against India in Test cricket, as they pulled off a thrilling 25-run victory.
5 lowest Test totals successfully defended against India
1. West Indies’ iconic 38-run victory in Bridgetown (1996/97)
The all-time record for the lowest total successfully defended against India belongs to the West Indies. In the 1996/97 season, the West Indies held India to just 120 runs while defending a modest 158-run target in Bridgetown, Barbados. Their disciplined bowling attack secured a memorable 38-run win, a feat that remains unparalleled in terms of low-score defenses against India.
2. New Zealand’s 147-run defense at Wankhede (2024/25)
New Zealand’s recent defense of 147 in the 2024/25 season against India at the Wankhede Stadium ranks second on the all-time list. Their bowlers capitalized on the challenging pitch conditions to apply relentless pressure on the Indian batsmen. The thrilling 25-run victory underscored New Zealand’s tactical brilliance and adaptability, and it stands as a testament to their unwavering determination.
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3. Sri Lanka’s 176-run defense in Galle (2015)
In 2015, Sri Lanka delivered a remarkable bowling display to defend a target of 176 against India at the Galle International Stadium. Despite the modest total, Sri Lanka’s bowlers exploited the spin-friendly conditions to secure a decisive 63-run victory, showcasing the impact of intelligent bowling in low-scoring games.
4. England’s Birmingham defense of 194 (2018)
During the 2018 season in Birmingham, England successfully defended a target of 194 against India. Their bowlers executed a disciplined game plan to restrict India to just 162, clinching a narrow 31-run win. England’s defense in this match highlighted the importance of persistence and tight bowling, especially in pressure-filled situations.
5. South Africa’s memorable 208-run defense in Cape Town (2017/18)
South Africa’s bowlers took centre stage at Cape Town in the 2017/18 season, defending a target of 208 runs and dismissing India for just 135. This dominant 72-run victory on a seamer-friendly pitch underscored South Africa’s strength in fast bowling, turning the low target into a monumental challenge for the Indian lineup.
Also READ: “I fully take responsibility of that as a captain and leader” – Rohit Sharma on India’s embarrassing Test series whitewash against New Zealand
