Updated on: December 14, 2024 6:20 pm GMT
India’s cricket team is on the brink of making history. As they prepare to face New Zealand in a three-match Test series starting October 16 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, they have the opportunity to set multiple records that could reshape the landscape of Test cricket.
With the first match kicking off at 9:30 AM, all eyes will be on Captain Rohit Sharma, who is aiming to etch his name in the record books. The Indian team recently completed a successful series against Bangladesh, and their confidence is high as they look to dominate New Zealand.
Rohit Sharma’s Record-Breaking Potential
Rohit Sharma stands at a pivotal point in his captaincy career. He has the chance to achieve four significant records during this upcoming series:
- Most Successful WTC Captain: Currently, Rohit has won 12 out of 18 matches in the World Test Championship. A victory against New Zealand would catapult him past former captain Virat Kohli, who led India to 14 wins in 22 matches.
- Fourth Most Successful Test Captain for India: If India wins all three Test matches, Rohit will surpass Mohammad Azharuddin, who won 14 matches from 1990 to 1997. This would give Rohit a total of 15 Test wins, making him the fourth most successful captain in India’s history.
- 1,000 Runs in Two WTC Editions: Rohit has bagged 742 runs in 11 matches during the ongoing WTC cycle. If he scores 258 runs against the Kiwis, he will become the first Indian to achieve 1,000 runs across two WTC editions.
- 3,000 Runs in WTC: To reach this incredible milestone, he needs to score at least 406 runs in the upcoming three Tests. Currently, he has amassed 2,594 runs in 34 matches.
India’s Unique Sixes Record
In addition to individual achievements, India is set to make a remarkable team record. The Men in Blue have already hit 97 sixes in Test matches this year, edging closer to an unthinkable milestone of 100 sixes in a calendar year. This would make them the first team in Test cricket history to reach triple digits in sixes.
Just three more sixes during the series against New Zealand would break this long-standing barrier, making a remarkable statement about their aggressive batting style in Test cricket.
The Competitive Edge
As India prepares to face New Zealand, the teams will have to consider the weather and pitch conditions in Bengaluru. Following recent rain, the conditions may favor a strong seam attack, an area where both teams excel.
New Zealand, known for their formidable bowling lineup, will be a tough competitor, especially considering they faced a 0-1 defeat in their last tour of India in 2021. Rohit and his team are determined to turn the tables and secure a series victory.
Broadcast and Viewing Information
Cricket fans eager to watch the action unfold will be able to tune in via various platforms. The first Test will be broadcast on Sports18 and Colours Cineplex channels. For those looking to stream the match online, Jio Cinema will offer live streaming.
The Stakes are High
With records on the line and a competitive team atmosphere, both India and New Zealand will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory. Rohit Sharma’s pursuit of personal and team milestones could redefine his legacy in cricket should he achieve them in this series.
As the teams take to the field, the excitement is palpable. The stakes are high, and fans are buzzing with anticipation, wondering if India can create a remarkable chapter in cricket history. The story unfolding in Bengaluru could set the tone for the future of the sport, showcasing talent, determination, and the spirit of competition.
India’s cricket journey is still very much alive, and with potential records just one match away, fans are eagerly anticipating whether history will be written.
