India's opening match against New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru turned into a nightmare as they collapsed to just 46 runs in the first innings. To make things worse, star wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant also suffered an injury to the same knee he had surgery on in December 2022. Captain Rohit Sharma provided an update on Pant's condition and whether or not he will be able to play for the rest of the match.
Rishabh Pant Injury Update and India's Nightmare Start Against New Zealand
Indian cricket team suffered a disastrous start to their third Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, collapsing to a dismal 46 runs in the first innings. Adding to the disappointment, star wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant sustained an injury to the same knee he underwent surgery on last year.
Pant's Injury Update
Captain Rohit Sharma addressed the media after the first day's play, providing an update on Pant's condition. He stated that Pant had injured his knee while attempting to save a boundary during the New Zealand innings. The extent of the injury is yet to be determined, but Pant was sent for scans to ascertain the severity.
"It's not a good sign for us because he's an important player for us," Sharma said. "We'll have to assess the extent of the injury and then take a call."
India's Batting Woes
India's dismal batting performance was a major setback in their quest for a series victory. The top order crumbled under pressure, with Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Virat Kohli all failing to reach double figures.
K.S. Bharat, who stood in as wicketkeeper in Pant's absence, top-scored with 25 runs. Mohammed Shami's unbeaten 19 helped India reach their meager total.
New Zealand's Dominance
New Zealand, on the other hand, looked in complete control throughout the day. Their bowlers exploited the conditions to perfection, with Tim Southee, Trent Boult, and Matt Henry sharing nine wickets between them.
The visitors also scored a solid 212 runs in their first innings, with Devon Conway leading the way with a half-century.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the extent of Rishabh Pant's injury? The extent of Pant's injury is still unknown. He is undergoing scans to determine the severity.
2. Will Pant be able to play in the rest of the match? Rohit Sharma said they will have to assess the injury and then take a call on Pant's availability.
3. What was the reason for India's batting collapse? India's top order failed to adjust to the conditions and put pressure on the lower order. They also made several unforced errors.
4. Who was India's top scorer in the first innings? K.S. Bharat was India's top scorer with 25 runs.
5. What was the score of New Zealand's first innings? New Zealand scored 212 runs in their first innings.
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