The much-anticipated opening day of the first Test between India and New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, was completely washed out due to persistent rain. Despite high hopes for an exciting start to the three-match series, not a single ball was bowled as the weather dominated proceedings.

Play Called Off at 2:30 PM Local Time

At 14:30 IST (09:00 GMT), match officials had no choice but to abandon the day, with both the first and second sessions lost to incessant showers. Even the toss could not take place, further delaying the contest between the two cricketing giants. Reports from the venue suggest that although the drainage system is highly effective, the weather forecast remains grim for the next few days, threatening to impact play across the first three days of the Test.

Kohli and Jaiswal Keep the Rhythm at NCA

Despite the damp start, Team India’s star batter Virat Kohli and young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal utilized the downtime productively. They hit the indoor nets at the nearby National Cricket Academy (NCA), along with assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, to stay in rhythm. Rain had already disrupted the team’s pre-match preparations, limiting practice sessions in the lead-up to the game.

India Eye Another WTC Win Amid Tougher Competition

India, fresh from a convincing 2-0 victory over Bangladesh, are currently atop the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. However, they will be wary of New Zealand, who are known to punch above their weight in away conditions. The Kiwis, currently placed sixth in the WTC table, will look to start strong and upset India’s momentum.

India’s last Test encounter also suffered from adverse weather—nearly three days were washed out against Bangladesh in Kanpur. Despite the interruptions, India managed a win with 40+ overs to spare. However, facing New Zealand, a stronger side, India will need to remain sharp and make the most of any windows of play in this weather-marred contest.

What’s Next?

With the rain forecast showing little improvement, fans and players alike will have fingers crossed for at least a shortened second day. The match, scheduled to run until October 20, offers enough time for a result if the skies clear. But if the rain persists, both teams may have to make tactical adjustments to accommodate lost sessions.

Keep an eye on CricFann for live updates and developments as we hope for play to begin soon in Bengaluru. Stay tuned for all the latest on India’s campaign to cement their spot in the WTC final at Lord’s next year.