New Zealand Takes Charge in First Test Against India, Narrows Down Lead to 299

The resumption of play on the third day at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru granted New Zealand an opportunity to make the most of their initial advantage, and they leveraged the opportunity well, crushing India's hopes of a first-innings strong comeback. The Kiwi batting lineup demonstrated remarkable resilience, crafting a comeback from a 180 for three during the previous day's play to forge an unbroken lead of 299 runs.

Rachin Ravindra has etched his name in New Zealand cricket history, notching his second century in Tests by scoring an immaculate 104 off 125 deliveries. His aggressive batting style displayed ferocity against Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, the spin duo that posed the biggest threat to New Zealand's batting lineup at that stage. Ravindra's unbeaten century halted India's plan to limit the Kiwis' lead.

India had pinned New Zealand down for a spell early in the day, promptly claiming three top-order wickets when the Kiwis resumed play at 180 for three. Kushagra S Rajput was the standout performer in the new ball, weaving a web of confusion among the New Zealand lineup. New Zealand's heart and spirit were severely dented during that crease period, but match seasoned batsmen Tim Southee laid footprints on the Indian respite from failure.

A wily partnership of 112 runs by Ravindra and Southee turned the match dynamics in New Zealand's favor. Both batsmen registered significant scorecards with 104 not out and 49*, respectively, kindling the hopes for a crushing lead that left Indian minds perplexed. 묃Nicholaas Poonia was the fast bowler from India who left New Zealand at