Bengaluru, Oct 19 (Reporter) India mounted a sensational recovery on Day 4 of the first test at the Chinnaswamy Stadium here erasing New Zealand’s imposing 356-run lead and taking control of the match with a lead of 82 runs. However, the visitors clawed their way back with key wickets late in the day, leaving the match finely poised with just 32.4 overs left to play. After their dismal collapse for 46 in the first innings, India’s second-innings fightback was led by Sarfaraz Khan (150) and Rishabh Pant (99). Their commanding 150-run partnership breathed life back into the hosts' prospects, with Pant thrilling the crowd with 9 boundaries and 5 colossal sixes, including a 107-meter monster off Tim Southee. However, Pant fell heartbreakingly short of his century, bowled by William O'Rourke in the midst of a mini-New Zealand resurgence. Sarfaraz, playing a mature and well-judged innings, also departed soon after, caught by Ajaz Patel off Southee. With the second new ball beginning to bite, New Zealand managed to stem India’s charge, taking three wickets for just 38 runs in the last 10 overs before Tea. The Kiwis, sensing a shift in momentum, brought fresh intensity, putting the pressure back on India despite their 438/6 scoreline. Earlier, India went into the lunch break at 344/3, having reduced the deficit to just 12 runs. Sarfaraz and Pant were instrumental in India’s morning recovery, adding 113 runs off just 132 balls. Sarfaraz, playing in only his third Test, displayed grit and impeccable shot selection, reaching his maiden Test century with a beautifully timed punch through the covers. His poise was complemented by Pant's typical flamboyance, as the wicketkeeper-batter raced to a half-century with audacious strokes all around the ground. The only scare came when a mix-up between the two nearly resulted in a run-out, but they survived the moment of panic. With Pant’s aggressive intent and Sarfaraz’s steady accumulation, India looked set to take command of the match. However, a sudden downpour at Bengaluru brought an early halt to proceedings, with the players forced off the field for an extended break. With 32.4 overs left in the day, both teams have all to play for in what promises to be a gripping finish at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Brief Scores: New Zealand 402; India 46 & 438/6 (Sarfaraz Khan 150, Rishabh Pant 99); India lead by 82 runs at Tea...////...