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India were bowled out for just 46 runs in their first innings of the opening Test match against New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This dismal performance not only marks India’s third-lowest total in Test cricket history but also underscores the dominance of New Zealand’s pace attack.
The Indian batting lineup crumbled under pressure as New Zealand’s bowlers showcased their skill and determination. Matt Henry was particularly impressive, claiming five wickets for just 15 runs, while 23-year-old William O’Rourke, took four wickets. Tim Southee also contributed by dismissing Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, further adding to India’s woes.
Also READ: Netizens in shock as New Zealand packs India for their lowest-ever total at home on Day 2 of Bengaluru Test
Here are the top 5 lowest totals by India in Test cricket
5) 58 vs England
In July 1952, India was dismissed for 58 runs during their first innings against England at the Manchester cricket ground. The match was dominated by England’s fast bowler Frederick Trueman, who claimed an astonishing eight wickets. England secured victory by an innings and 207 runs, showcasing the stark disparity in performance.
4) 58 vs Australia
Just a few years earlier, in November 1947, India faced a similar fate, being all out for 58 runs in their first innings against Australia at the Brisbane Cricket Ground. Ernest Toshack was the standout bowler for Australia, taking five wickets and leading his team to a convincing victory by an innings and 226 runs.
3) 46 vs New Zealand
India’s most recent low total of 46 runs occurred in the ongoing Test match against New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The Indian batting lineup crumbled against a formidable New Zealand pace attack, with Matt Henry leading the charge by taking a fifer, Notably, five Indian batters were dismissed for zero, a statistic that will undoubtedly haunt the team as they regroup for the remainder of the match.
2) 42 vs England
India’s second-lowest total in Test cricket came in June 1974 at the legendary Lord’s cricket ground, where they were bowled out for a mere 42 runs in their second innings against England. Christopher Old was the architect of India’s downfall, taking five wickets and helping England to a resounding victory by an innings and 285 runs.
1) 36 vs Australia
The lowest total in Indian Test history was recorded against Australia in December 2020 during a match in Adelaide. In their second innings, India crumbled to just 36 runs, with Josh Hazlewood delivering a phenomenal bowling performance that led to Australia winning the match by eight wickets. This historic collapse remains a significant moment in Indian cricket, highlighting vulnerabilities in the batting lineup.
