New Zealand have beaten India by 40 runs in Auckland in a thrilling finish to a first cricket Test that had its share of twists and turns.
Seamer Neil Wagner started the Black Caps’ fight-back on day four when he claimed the vital wicket of Virat Kohli as India looked well set in their chase for 407.
Wagner went on to finish with 4-62 to go with his four wickets in the first innings.
The Black Caps’ effort in the field was also notable for the six catches taken by BJ Watling, giving him nine catches for the match, the most by a New Zealand keeper in a Test.
India made a bold attempt to pull off the third highest successful run chase in Tests and the highest in New Zealand.
They got to 222-2 during the day’s middle session, with opener Shikhar Dhawan and Kohli having taken their partnership to 126.
But a match of momentum swings turned again as Wagner claimed the scalps of both.
The classy Kohli, who had been pushing the scoring along, was caught behind on 67.
Dhawan, having reached his second Test century, fell in similar fashion on 115.
With tea approaching, New Zealand took the second new ball and had instant success.
With the first delivery, Trent Boult removed Ajinkya Rahane leg before for 18, although replays showed Rahane was unlucky as he got bat to ball.
Tim Southee followed up with the first ball after tea, dismissing Rohit Sharma for 19.
Ravindra Jadeja joined skipper MS Dhoni and the pair decided to go on the offensive, smashing 54 runs in 34 balls.
Having got to 26, Jadeja attempted another big hit and holed out at mid-on.
When Zaheer Khan was caught in the slips off Wagner, India were left needing 58 runs with two wickets remaining.
Dhoni’s dismissal for 39 after he played a Wagner delivery on to his stumps put victory firmly in New Zealand’s sights.