In a challenging start to the first Test against New Zealand, the Indian cricket team faced a dismal defeat, getting bundled out for a mere 46 runs—marking their third lowest score in Test history. After the first Test was washed out due to rain, the second day saw India’s batting lineup crumble under overcast conditions, much to the dismay of captain Rohit Sharma.

Reflecting on the disastrous decision to bat first, Rohit admitted in the post-Day 2 press conference that he misjudged the pitch. "We thought it wouldn't help the seamers much after the first session or so," he stated. "It was a misjudgment on my part, and I couldn't read the pitch well. I am hurting to see this score of 46 as a captain as it was my call to bat first." Despite the unfortunate outcome, he noted, "One or two bad calls in a year is quite alright."

This collapse was particularly surprising given India’s recent Test series win against Bangladesh, where they had shown formidable form. However, on a pitch that had been covered due to recent rains, New Zealand's pace attack, led by William O'Rourke and Matt Henry, took full advantage of the conditions. Tim Southee’s early dismissal of Rohit set the tone for the innings, with five Indian batters, including Virat Kohli, registering ducks.

Rohit acknowledged the team's poor shot selection and execution, stating, “On a pitch where there was assistance for the seamers, it was a bad day. Sometimes you plan to do something but fail to execute.”

The decision to include three spinners and only two pacers also faced scrutiny, as the conditions favored seam bowling. Rohit defended his batting lineup choices, particularly promoting Kohli to the number three position, which backfired when Kohli fell for a duck. Rohit emphasized the need for stability, saying, “We don't want to touch KL's batting position much. He has found a place at 6, so let's give him a rope there.”

As the match continues, the Indian team will need to regroup and rethink their strategy to bounce back from this early setback.