In a defining moment for New Zealand cricket, the team is on the verge of its first-ever Test series win in India after a commanding performance in Pune.
New Zealand’s bowlers seized control in the second Test by dismissing India for only 156 runs in their first innings, establishing a 103-run lead. Mitchell Santner delivered a stellar performance, taking 7 wickets for 53 runs and putting the hosts under intense pressure.
By stumps, New Zealand led the three-match series 1-0 and stood at 198-5 in their second innings, extending their advantage to 301 runs. Captain Tom Latham contributed significantly with 86 runs, while Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips remained not out at 30 and 9, respectively. However, Santner noted they “still have a job to do with the bat” to ease the load on their bowlers.
India’s batting collapse, echoing their struggle in the first Test where they managed just 46 runs, came despite a top score of 38 from Ravindra Jadeja. Santner’s left-arm spin proved decisive on a turning pitch, halting India’s batting within 45.3 overs.
Washington Sundar, however, was a bright spot for India, securing four wickets in New Zealand’s innings and bringing his match tally to 11 following a first-day haul of 7-59.
As the final day looms, New Zealand is poised to make history with their first Test series victory in India—a milestone within reach for the determined visitors.
Can New Zealand seize this historic victory ? As anticipation builds, all eyes are fixed on Pune, where Saturday’s first session could mark the dawn of a new era for New Zealand cricket.
