The opening Test match between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru has been overshadowed by unpredictable weather, with rain and thunderstorms threatening to play a pivotal role on the final day.
Despite early forecasts suggesting that rain would dominate the proceedings, the first three days of the Test saw some solid cricket, although the weather has remained an ever-present concern. Now, with New Zealand closing in on the target of 107 runs to win, the forecast for Sunday could yet decide the outcome.
As the match stands, New Zealand are in a commanding position, requiring 107 runs with all ten second-innings wickets intact. India, on the other hand, will hope the weather plays its part and denies New Zealand the time they need to chase down the total. Should the rain arrive as predicted, India could see it as an opportunity to drag the game into a draw.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Bengaluru is expected to see “generally cloudy skies with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers” on Sunday. This forecast aligns with Accuweather’s prediction of thunderstorms in the area late Saturday night through Sunday evening. The prospect of rain could disrupt play, and given New Zealand’s advantageous position, India would welcome the interruption.
The M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, known for its world-class drainage system and subsurface aeration technology, has helped mitigate the impact of the weather so far. The ground has been able to resume play quickly after rain interruptions, and both teams will be hoping the facility can continue to assist in keeping the match alive.
The first day of the match was a complete washout, with persistent rain forcing the covers to stay in place throughout the day. However, play resumed the following morning under overcast conditions, and New Zealand’s pace attack made the most of the opportunity, bowling India out for just 46 in 31.2 overs. The visitors then piled on 402 runs in their first innings, before India fought back with 462 in their second innings, setting New Zealand a target that now looks within reach, weather permitting.
With New Zealand fresh off a 2-0 loss in Sri Lanka and widely regarded as the underdogs in this Test series, they will be hoping for a dry spell to make a bid for victory. For India, the forecast of rain might just offer a lifeline as they aim to stave off defeat.
As the match moves into its final day, the weather remains the wild card. Both teams will be closely monitoring the skies, knowing that rain could yet have the final say in what has already been an eventful Test.
Read This:- New Zealand Eye First Test Win in India in 36 Years