India vs New Zealand: Even though there was no rain and it seemed for the longest time that play will get underway on time (09:15 am IST) in the India vs New Zealand 1st Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, there was still a bit of delay. Notably, India won the toss and elected to bat first on Day 2 after the first day of the series opener was called off without a ball bowled.
While toss happend early at 08:45 am with the play scheduled to get underway at 09:15, there was a delay as players waited for the light to take full effect at the stadium. With overcast conditions in Bengaluru, the natural light wasn't deemed good enough for the start of play by the on-field umpires. When they asked for the artificial lights to be turned on, the light tower took time to switch on completely, causing a five-minute delay to the actual scheduled start.
READ HERE | India Vs New Zealand 1st Test: Rohit Sharma Wins Toss On Day 2, Elects To Bat. Check Out The Playing 11s
To make up for the time lost, play has been extended by five minutes on Day 2 in what is planned to be a 98-over day.
India Suffer Early Blows On Day 2
India have suffered early blows in their first innings after electing to bat first. In seaming conditions, the Kiwi pacers have been posing tough challenges and have tasted success. Each of the three bowlers used so far Tim Southee, Matt Henry and William O’Rourke have a wicket each to their name with Rohit Sharma departing for 2 and Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan both departing for ducks.
ALSO READ | Bengaluru Weather Forecast: Will Rain Interrupt Day 2 Of IND vs NZ Test?
A win is important for India in every match of their home season as they need at least 4 wins from their remaining 8 matches (including the ongoing Test) to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final without depending on the result of any other team..