Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India : The India vs New Zealand Test series has produced some of the most unforgettable moments in cricket history. While India has often dominated on home soil, there have been several instances where the Indian team struggled in their first innings but managed to stage incredible comebacks. One such recent example occurred during the Bengaluru Test, where Rohit Sharma and his team were bowled out for just 46 runs in their first innings. Despite this setback, India bounced back in memorable fashion, proving that early struggles do not necessarily predict the outcome of the match. This theme of early difficulties followed by resilience has been evident in some of the most iconic Test matches between India and New Zealand. Let’s revisit the top three memorable Test matches in India where the Indian team, despite facing early troubles, managed to achieve remarkable results.
1. India vs New Zealand, Mohali Test (1999) – India Scores 82 Runs
One of the most iconic Test matches between India and New Zealand took place in Mohali from October 10 to October 14, 1999. In this match, India faced a daunting challenge right from the start, as the team was bowled out for just 83 runs in their first innings. New Zealand, in response, managed to score 215 runs, taking a significant lead of 132 runs. It seemed like India was in serious trouble. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
➥ Also Read: IND vs NZ 1st Test Day 3 Report
However, the Indian batting line-up, led by Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar, staged an extraordinary comeback in the second innings. Dravid, with a sublime knock of 144, and Tendulkar, with 126, helped India declare their innings at a commanding 505/3. Their heroics completely turned the game around, putting immense pressure on New Zealand. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
In the final innings, New Zealand fought back and managed to score 251/7 before the match ended in a draw. Despite the initial setback, India’s resilience in the second innings made this match one of the most memorable encounters in India-New Zealand Test history. The match was a testament to India’s ability to bounce back from seemingly hopeless situations. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
2. India vs New Zealand, Hyderabad Test (1969) – India All Out for 89
Another unforgettable Test match between India and New Zealand took place in Hyderabad from October 15 to October 20, 1969. This game saw the Indian team, captained by Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, being bowled out for just 89 runs in their first innings. New Zealand, led by Graham Dowling, had earlier managed to post a modest total of 181 in their first innings.
Despite India’s disastrous start, they fought back in the second innings. New Zealand declared their second innings at 175/8, setting India a target of 268 runs to win. However, the Indian team faced another batting collapse, finishing at 76/7 in their second innings. As a result, the match ended in a draw, but India’s grit and determination under pressure made this Test match memorable. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
While the match itself didn’t produce a result, it highlighted the competitive nature of India-New Zealand Test cricket during that era. The low-scoring match, filled with ups and downs, demonstrated that cricket is a game of uncertainties, where fortunes can change in an instant. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
3. India vs New Zealand, Mumbai Test (1965) – India’s Innings Ends at 88
The third Test match that stands out in the history of India vs New Zealand clashes occurred at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai in 1965. This match saw India collapsing to just 88 runs in their first innings after New Zealand had posted 297 runs in their opening innings. John Reid, New Zealand’s captain, enforced a follow-on, and it seemed like India was staring at an inevitable defeat. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
However, what followed was one of the greatest fightbacks in Indian cricket history. Dilip Sardesai, with a magnificent double century (200 runs), and Chandu Borde, who scored a brilliant 109, turned the match on its head. India declared their second innings at a mammoth 463/5, giving New Zealand a target of 255 runs to win. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
In the final innings, New Zealand found themselves struggling at 80/8 when time ran out, and the match was drawn. India’s remarkable comeback after being bowled out for just 88 in their first innings remains one of the most inspiring moments in Test cricket. This match demonstrated the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
➥ Also Read: IND vs NZ 1st Test Day 3 Report
Conclusion
The Test matches between India and New Zealand have always been competitive and filled with drama. These three memorable matches showcase the unpredictable nature of Test cricket, where teams can turn the tide despite early setbacks. India’s ability to recover from low scores in the first innings and put up formidable performances in the second innings is a testament to their resilience. Top 3 Most Memorable Tests in India
From the historic matches in the 1960s to the more recent encounters, the India vs New Zealand rivalry has produced some of the most unforgettable moments in cricket. These matches highlight not just individual brilliance but also the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and the unpredictable charm of Test cricket.
