IND vs NZ: O'Rourke Reflects on Special Moment of Dismissing Kohli in Debut Test on Indian Soil

Add as a preferred source on Google

Bengaluru, Oct 19: New Zealand pacer William O'Rourke had a memorable introduction to Test cricket on Indian soil, making a resounding impact by dismissing Virat Kohli in his very first over. The young fast bowler admitted that claiming the prized scalp of one of the modern greats was a surreal moment for him.

India were bowled out for 462 in their second innings, setting New Zealand a target of 112 runs for a rare away Test victory. The 6-foot 5-inches tall pacer made an impact with the ball in both innings, having picked up four and three wickets respectively in the match. Also Read: Sher Ke Muh Mein Khoon Lag Gaya Hai: Sarfaraz Khan's School Coach- Exclusive

Although the Kiwis are just 107 runs shy of a win, O'Rourke cautioned that the job is far from over. "I wouldn't say it's an easy win from here. We've got a world-class team going up against us. But we've got to be confident going out there tomorrow," O'Rourke stated at the post-day press conference.

"Hopefully, for our sake, the rain stays away and we get a chance to have a crack at it," he added, expressing concern over Bengaluru's unpredictable weather.

A Dream Delivery: O'Rourke Dismisses Kohli

O'Rourke's first encounter with Indian conditions proved to be both thrilling and rewarding, thanks to the lively pitch at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The pacer utilised the extra pace and bounce to trouble India's top order, and his moment of glory arrived when he got the better of Kohli in the first innings.

Bowling a steep delivery aimed at Kohli's body, O'Rourke forced the Indian batting maestro into an awkward jab, which was snapped up at gully by Glenn Phillips. For the 23-year-old, this wicket holds special significance.

"It's obviously pretty special getting someone so great, one of the greats of our game, out like that," O'Rourke said, his excitement evident. "Obviously, you grow up watching those guys. So, to come here and take that wicket, it's probably right up there among my best moments."

Hails tough Resistance from Sarfaraz and Pant

Reflecting on India's spirited fightback, O'Rourke acknowledged the challenges posed by Sarfaraz Khan (150) and Rishabh Pant (99). The duo frustrated the Kiwis with a 177-run stand for the fourth wicket, putting the visitors under immense pressure.

"I've been pretty hot and cold with the ball. Pant and Sarfaraz batted really well for a long time. But that second new ball started doing a little bit for us," he remarked. "Good to see Timmy (Southee) getting that first breakthrough with Sarfaraz's wicket, and I was lucky to pick up Pant to give us some momentum."

Learning from Kyle Jamieson

O'Rourke also expressed gratitude toward fellow pacer Kyle Jamieson, who has been guiding him from the sidelines. Jamieson, recovering from a back stress fracture, has played a significant mentoring role for the young bowler.

"Kyle's been in the background, giving advice when needed. He's had a hell of a start to his international career and is one of the best bowlers in the world. It's been great learning from him," O'Rourke said.

With just 107 runs to chase, New Zealand seems poised for a memorable Test victory in India. However, O'Rourke remains cautious, knowing that Indian conditions can produce surprises until the very last ball.

If the rain stays away, the young pacer and his teammates will have a golden opportunity to claim a famous win made even sweeter for O'Rourke by the memory of dismissing Kohli in his first encounter with Indian cricket's passionate crowd.