A stunning bowling performance from New Zealand left India reeling on the second day of the second Test match in Pune. Led by Mitchell Santner, the Kiwi bowlers exploited the conditions to bundle out the Indian batting lineup for a paltry 107 runs, giving their team a significant first-innings lead.
The Indian innings began promisingly, with Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal playing some aggressive shots. However, the tide turned when Gill was trapped leg-before-wicket by Santner. Virat Kohli’s dismissal, bowled by a low full-toss, further dented India’s hopes. Rishabh Pant’s brief cameo ended when he was caught down the leg side.
The Indian batsmen struggled to adapt to the changing conditions, and wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. Sarfaraz Khan and R Ashwin were also dismissed by Santner, while Washington Sundar survived a close lbw call just before lunch.
India now face a daunting task of rebuilding their innings and avoiding a significant first-innings deficit. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar will have to play crucial roles if India are to make a comeback in the match.
