New Zealand Defeats India in Historic Test Victory Amidst Fitness Concerns

New Zealand achieved a monumental eight-wicket victory over India in their first Test win on Indian soil in 36 years. Key Indian player Shubman Gill missed the match due to neck stiffness, while Rishabh Pant struggled post-surgery. Despite strong performances, India succumbed to a second-innings collapse.

India suffered a historic loss to New Zealand in the first Test, as the visitors clinched an eight-wicket win, their first in India in 36 years. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma hinted at batter Shubman Gill's fitness, missing the match due to neck stiffness, a noticeable absence as New Zealand dominated.

Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant delivered notable performances for India. However, a second-innings collapse after the new ball's introduction saw India bowled out for 107 runs, enabling New Zealand's chase. Performances from Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, and William O'Rourke played crucial roles in New Zealand's triumph.

Rohit Sharma addressed Pant's post-surgery fielding difficulties during the presser, emphasizing the need for caution. Despite Pant's discomfort, Rohit lauded his mindset and backed him to play freely. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah's two wickets offered resistance, but New Zealand's solid innings from Will Young and Ravindra scripted their notable victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)