Can India defend 107 in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand? This is what history says

In a gripping encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Rohit Sharma's Indian cricket team finds itself in a challenging position as it gears up to defend a modest target of 107 runs against Tom Latham's New Zealand. With the series poised at 0-0 in this three-match Test series, the stakes could not be higher, as India looks to take a crucial 1-0 lead. 

Historically, India has been a formidable opponent for New Zealand in home Tests, having not lost to the Kiwis since October 1969. However, this match presents a Herculean task for the home side, as they must now defy the odds to secure a win. The challenge is underscored by the fact that India has defended a target of 107 runs or fewer only once in Test cricket history. This rare feat occurred in 2004 when Rahul Dravid’s team managed to beat Ricky Ponting’s Australian side by a narrow 13 runs, bowling them out for just 93 while defending a total of 107 runs at the Wankhede Stadium.

In terms of historical context, India's previous successes in defending low targets further emphasize the gravity of their current situation. They also managed to bowl Australia out for a meager 83 runs while defending 143 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 1981. Against New Zealand, the lowest score India has successfully defended was 188, which dates back to a match at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai in September 1969. Interestingly, the lowest total defended by India at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium is also 188, achieved against Australia under the captaincy of Steve Smith in March 2017.

In this match, India faced significant adversity after being bowled out for a paltry 46 runs in their first innings, conceding a massive lead of 356 runs to New Zealand. However, the home team displayed remarkable resilience in their second innings, posting a formidable 462 runs. Sarfaraz Khan emerged as the standout performer, scoring an impressive 150 runs off 195 balls, peppered with 18 boundaries and three sixes. His innings provided a glimmer of hope for India, showcasing their potential to recover from dire situations.

Rishabh Pant also played a crucial role, narrowly missing out on a century with his score of 99 runs from 105 balls before being dismissed by William O’Rourke. O’Rourke, along with Matt Henry, proved to be a thorn in India's side, each claiming three wickets in a match where conditions have been unpredictable.

On Day 4, as New Zealand began their run-chase, only four balls were bowled before rain interrupted play, effectively halting the match and leaving fans on the edge of their seats. With the weather adding an element of unpredictability, the question remains: can India summon the strength to defend this modest target and secure a victory against a determined New Zealand side? The outcome will not only dictate the trajectory of the series but also test the mettle of the Indian team as they aim to continue their stronghold at home.