India v New Zealand 1964-65

Everything else in this match was overshadowed by the remarkable Test debut of Taylor for New Zealand. Making the most of his height, Taylor a forceful left-hander, attacked the Indian bowling freely while scoring his maiden century in first-class cricket and later he went on to take five wickets for 86 ar right arm medium pace.

In the absence of Sardesai, injured, India called on Kunderam; they also preferred Desai and Gupte to Manjrekar and Surti and in this way strengthened their bowling, but Gupte did not come off with his wrist spin owing to erratic length and direction. New Zealand tried a leg-spinner in Vivian instead of the pacy left-handed Collinge and this move, too did no good.

Still, New Zealand played much better cricket in this match after Reid won the toss. The captain hit four 6's and ten 4's in his spectacular 82, and Sutcliffe revealed his class by his sure defence and clean hitting while taking out his bat for 151, India faced a formidable total, but after an uncertain start (four wickets fell for 101) Borde 62, and Pataudi began a recovery, the Nawab giving one of his best displays while making 153. New Zealand still held the upper hand and they led by 82 yet they could not leave India a reasonable task.