New Zealand pacer Matt Henry was the star of the second session on day 2 of the first Test against Indiadisplaying exceptional skill and athleticism. His devastating spell left India reeling and eventually dismissed the hosts for one of their lowest ever totals in Test history at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Henry’s combination of precision and brilliant bowling played a key role in New Zealand’s dominance, bringing them within touching distance of a historic collapse for India.
Matt Henry’s early revelations spark India’s downfall
Henry was in sensational form from the start, setting the stage for India’s collapse just after the lunch break. On the first ball of the second session, Henry struck gold, ruling out the dangerous Ravichandran Ashwin for a golden duck. The delivery, full and swinging late, proved too good for Ashwin, who had no answer as the ball crashed into his stumps. This revelation only increased Henry’s dominance as he continued to apply relentless pressure.
Soon after, in the 26th over, he took off Rishabh Pantswho had shown some resistance, with a lovely outswinger that found the edge and was caught behind. Pant’s dismissal for 20 marked the turning point in India’s innings and Henry wasn’t done yet. Ahead of Ashwin and Pant, Henry claimed the prized scalp Ravindra Jadeja AND Sarfaraz Khan. His spell of disciplined and attacking fast bowling destroyed India’s middle order, leaving them in complete disarray.
Henry’s sensational running catch to return Jasprit Bumrah
Henry didn’t just dominate with the ball; His incredible athleticism on the field was on full display in one of the game’s most memorable moments. As India struggled at 40/8, jasprit bumrah decided to throw caution to the wind, attempting a wild lift against a short ball from William O’Rourke. The ball soared high in the air, heading to safety at deep square leg.
However, Henry, determined to catch his breath, had other plans. With lightning speed, he ran all over the outfield, covering significant ground to get under the ball. Just as the chance seemed to elude him, Henry dived full length and completed a stunning low catch, lifting the ball inches from the ground. The crowd roared in appreciation as Bumrah, caught for just 1, returned to the pavilion. Henry’s incredible catch not only showed his versatility but also highlighted New Zealand’s all-round brilliance on the field.
Here’s the video:
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Henry’s five-wicket masterclass ensures India’s collapse
Henry’s day was far from over as he returned to end India’s innings in style. Having dismantled India’s top and middle order, Henry secured his deserved five-wicket haul by dismissing Kuldeep Yadav with another fine piece of bowling. Kuldeep, trying to avoid Henry’s try lines, was caught behind after cutting a delivery that cleared the seam. This dismissal marked India’s lowest total at home in Test cricket – just 46 runs, surpassing their previous record of 75 against the West Indies in 1987.
Henry’s final figures of 5/15 from his spell included a superb performance where he not only dominated with the ball but also contributed to the collapse with his fielding. India’s entire innings lasted just 31.2 overs, with just two wickets, Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswalreaching double digits. By the time New Zealand came out to bat, they were in complete control of the match, ending the second session comfortably at 78/1, with a 32-run lead in their favour.
