Day 3 of the first Test between India and New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium witnessed a dramatic finish as Virat Kohli, after a gritty and determined 70 runs, fell on the final ball of the day. Despite this setback, India fought back strongly, thanks to Kohli's who had a resilient partnership with Sarfaraz Khan.
Kohli, who had looked set to guide India to a strong finish, was dismissed for 70 by Glenn Phillips, leaving the hosts still trailing New Zealand's first innings total of 402 by 125 runs. The dismissal came as a bad blow for India.
Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan, who remained unbeaten on 70 each, forged a crucial 136-run partnership for the third wicket, rescuing India from a precarious position. Their defiant stand provided a glimmer of hope for the hosts, who had been reeling after a disastrous first innings collapse.
With two days of play remaining, India still faces an uphill task. The stage is set for an enthralling final two days, as India strive to overcome the deficit and put pressure on New Zealand.
