India vs New Zealand 1st Test: Rahul Dravid gives Rs 35,000 to Kanpur groundstaff for preparing sporting pitch

India head coach Rahul Dravid showed his generous side on Monday as he rewarded the Green Park Stadium ground staff Rs 35,000 for preparing a sporting pitch for the first Test which ended in a draw after New Zealand’s stunning rearguard on Day 5.

India, without six of their Test regulars, did well to dominate in Kanpur against the World Test Champions but at the end, they had to settle for a draw despite some desperate attempts.

“We would like to make an official announcement. Mr Rahul Dravid has paid Rs 35,000 personally to our groundsmen,” the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) announced in the press box after the game.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Highlights | Report

All three results were possible on the final day as New Zealand resumed their run chase of 284 on 4 for 1 and quickly took control of the first session with two crucial partnerships between Tom Latham, William Sommerville and Kane Williamson.

But things quickly spiralled out of control for the tourists as India’s spinners starting dominating the proceedings with Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin bowling in tandem.

Umesh Yadav started the collapse by removing nightwatchman Sommerville with his first delivery after the lunch break after which the spinners cashed in to reduce New Zealand from 118 for 2 to 128 for 6 within a session.

Jadeja picked 4 for 40 while Ashwin took 3 for 35 as New Zealand lost six wickets for 66 runs either side of the tea break. The last batting pair of debutant Rachin Ravindra and number 11 Ajaz Patel saw out the final 52 deliveries in fading light to secure a thrilling draw.

The second and final Test will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai from December 3.