India v New Zealand 1964-65

At Bombay, March 12, 13, 14, 15. Drawn. New Zealand missed a great opportunity of gaining the first victory in the series. Thanks mainly to a steady century by Dowling and 71 by Morgan, they put together a total of 287 against some admirable fast bowling by Desai who took six of the first eight wickets.

India began their innings shortly before lunch on the second day and they were all out for 88 in under two and three-quarter hours. It was their lowest Test total in their own country and was due to the hard brick pitch allowing Taylor and Motz to bounce the ball disconcertingly. Taylor finished with five for 26 and as usual India's batting in such circumstances was irresolute.

So India followed on 209 behind, but in the terrific heat Taylor and Moltz could not repeat their earlier triumphs. The turning point came when Sardesai, 20, was missed in the slips by Taylor of Congdon. That proved to be a reprieve for India as Sardesai stayed to reach 200 not out with Borde, 109, and Hanumant Singh, 75 not out, giving him splendid assistance.

The Nawab came in for severe criticism because he waited for Sardesai to complete his double century and so left New Zealand only two and a half hours at the crease when he held a lead of 254. As it was his bowlers nearly turned the tables for when the match ended New Zealand were 174 behind with only two wickets left.