The 2nd Test between India and New Zealand continued at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune, as New Zealand took the initiative for themselves after Mitchell Santner batted out all the overs towards the end of the day, outshining the Indian bowling. Already behind in the series at 1-0, India now stands at the risk of losing their 12-year unbeaten home record in Test series if they fail to bounce back.
Day 2: Batting Collapse of India
Resuming at 16/1, India was in an excellent position to build a good innings on Day 2. Opener Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal were providing a good start for India with a 49-run stand. The duo looked fluent against the bowlers, punishing anything short or wide. However, Gill’s dismissal for 30 by a quicker ball from Santner marked the beginning of a dramatic collapse.
Mitchell Santner Wreaks Havoc ()
Mitchell Santner was the standout performer, claiming 6 wickets as he outsmarted the Indian batters with his control, variations, and relentless accuracy. Changing his pace and flight, he made the Indian lineup struggle to find stability.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (30 runs): Caught by Daryl Mitchell off Glenn Phillips, marking a crucial breakthrough for New Zealand.
- Rohit Sharma (0 runs): Bowled by Tim Southee, departing early and putting India on the back foot.
- Virat Kohli (1 run): Bowled by Santner, failing to deliver after a premeditated attempt at attacking play.
- Ravindra Jadeja (38 runs): Provided some resistance but could not build a lasting partnership.
- Rishabh Pant (18 runs): Bowled by Phillips, after showing some aggressive intent.
By the end of India’s innings, Santner’s 6-wicket haul had reduced India to a mere 156, giving New Zealand a substantial lead of 103 runs.
Glenn Phillips Adds to India’s Misery
Part-time off-spinner Glenn Phillips supported his team effectively, taking two wickets to send India further into troubled waters. He got Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was scoring at a strike rate of 30, caught at slip in his very first over. Then, Rishabh Pant fell to a misjudged pull shot, clean bowled by Phillips.
Santner’s Masterclass in Bowling
Mitchell Santner’s figures of 5/36 tell a thousand words about his control over spin, pace, and bounce. His inclusion of quicker deliveries and loopy ones kept the Indian batters on their toes, unable to find rhythm or confidence. It ensured that New Zealand remained in command once India was all out for 156.
Conclusion: A Test to Remember for Santner
The Kiwis are in an excellent position as they look to end India’s proud home record, thanks to the extraordinary bowling from Mitchell Santner. New Zealand will aim to capitalize on the 103-run lead and set a challenging task for India. For India, the primary focus will be batting in the second innings to avoid a series defeat.
