India reached 438/6 in 90.2 overs, extending their lead to 82 runs at tea on Day Four of the first Test against New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. Sarfaraz Khan scored a brilliant 150, while Rishabh Pant added an exhilarating 99.
Pant and Sarfaraz Dominate with 177-Run Stand
Rain delayed play until 1:50 pm, but once resumed, a 177-run partnership between Sarfaraz and Pant for the fourth wicket put India in control. Pant’s aggressive strokes brought early boundaries, while Sarfaraz’s patient 150 included 18 fours and three sixes.
However, both fell in quick succession. Sarfaraz was caught at cover off Tim Southee, and Pant, attempting to reach his hundred, was bowled for 99 by William O’Rourke.
New Zealand Fights Back with Late Wickets
K.L. Rahul also fell before tea, edging a delivery from O’Rourke to the keeper. New Zealand capitalized on the second new ball, regaining momentum after India’s strong session. The match remains finely poised heading into the final stages.
Brief Scores:
India 46 and 438/6 (Sarfaraz Khan 150, Rishabh Pant 99; William O’Rourke 2-75, Ajaz Patel 2-100) lead New Zealand 402 by 82 runs.
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