As the second Test match between India and New Zealand unfolds at the MCA Stadium in Pune, New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first. Both teams are eager to capitalize on their respective strengths. As it’s a must-win encounter for the hosts, India, buoyed by a passionate home crowd, aimed to build on their spin attack and bowl out New Zealand as soon as possible.
New Zealand faced a challenging start but managed to post a respectable total by the time of the first drinks, the Kiwis stood at 49/1 in 14 overs, with Devon Conway and Will Young setting the foundation. However, the Indian bowlers struck back with crucial wickets, including Young, who was dismissed after a successful review.
By lunch, New Zealand had reached 92/2, with Conway notching up a well-crafted 50 off 109 balls, supported by Rachin Ravindra. After lunch, the partnership between Ravindra and Mitchell helped stabilize the innings, with Ravindra reaching his half-century off 93 balls. Drinks saw New Zealand at 145/3, and they eventually crossed the 150-run mark.
As the day progressed, New Zealand continued to build their score, reaching 200 runs for the loss of five wickets. However, India kept the pressure on and took regular wickets. After tea, New Zealand’s innings concluded at 259 in 79.1 overs, with Santner providing some late resistance with his 33 runs. The Indian spinners showcased their skill throughout the day, with Washington Sundar sculpting 7 wickets accompanied by R Ashwin who contributed with his 3 dismissals.
When India came in to bat in the day’s third session, the first wicket fell at 1 run. Indian captain went for a 9-ball duck and Gill joined Jaiswal at the crease. At stumps, team India is 16/1 and will look to capitalize on their batting strength on day 2.
