Rachin Ravindra’s resilient century helped New Zealand reach 345-7 at lunch on the third day of the rain-affected opening Test against India, establishing a commanding first-innings lead of 299 runs. Ravindra, unbeaten on 104, was supported by former captain Tim Southee, who remained not out on 49, as the pair forged a crucial 112-run partnership.
Starting the day at 180-3 under clear skies at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Ravindra anchored New Zealand’s innings, reaching his second Test century with a swept four off Ravichandran Ashwin, to the applause of the Bengaluru crowd, his ancestral home. His calm and composed knock frustrated India, who struggled to capitalize on early breakthroughs.
Daryl Mitchell (18) was dismissed early in the day by Mohammed Siraj, while Jasprit Bumrah accounted for Tom Blundell (5), caught at slip by KL Rahul. However, despite some success with pace, it was India’s spinners who posed the biggest challenge. Ravindra Jadeja bowled Glenn Phillips (14) and Matt Henry (8), taking his tally to three wickets.
India, still reeling from their dismal first innings total of 46—their lowest at home—sought early breakthroughs but were unable to halt New Zealand’s progress as Ravindra and Southee’s partnership strengthened the visitors’ grip on the match.
