India’s batting power was completely destroyed in the first innings against New Zealand as the team was bowled out for 46. This was the team’s lowest home record in history, as a fiver from Matt Henry and contributions from Tim Southee and Will O’Rourke.

One of the keys to India’s collapse may have been Virat Kohli’s promotion to number three with Shubman Gill sidelined due to injury. Although this is his primary position in limited-overs cricket, Virat Kohli has a poor record batting at number three in Test cricket.

Former India coach and player Anil Kumble, speaking to broadcaster JioCinema, revealed what he believes was the main reason behind India’s batting failure on the second day. According to him, playing Kohli out of position was a mistake as India lacked a strong player in that position to see the new ball.

“Virat Kohli should have batted at number 4, he is your number one batsman at that position,” Kumble said. “For number three you need someone like Cheteshwar Pujara, who has played so well there for so many years. 100 Test matches, because if he had been there today I don’t think he would have tried to hit the ball.”

“You miss that…”

Sarfaraz Khan came in for Shubman Gill and batted at number four, which is usually occupied by Kohli. While Sarfaraz has been in phenomenal form in domestic cricket, he failed to capitalize on his chance this time. He was dismissed by Matt Henry as he attempted to counter-attack the Kiwi bowling.

“He would let the ball pass and you miss someone like that.” Kind of an approach these days. And India is certainly in trouble here,” Kumble said, referring to Pujara.

India’s batting order was more circumspect than usual, with Yashasvi Jaiswal facing 83 deliveries. However, no Indian batsman was able to score a significant score, with Rishabh Pant top scoring with 20. The innings featured five ducks, including Kohli’s, who was caught at leg-slip after a great throw from O’Rourke. Kohli now averages 16.16 and scores just 97 runs while batting at number three.

New Zealand appeared far more relaxed in their response, with Devon Conway playing the role of attacker and scoring 91 before being sent off. At the end of the day’s play, the Black Caps had a 134-run lead with seven wickets still in hand and Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra on the sidelines.