India face New Zealand in the second Test match in Pune to level the series
India will be hoping that the first Test match was just a blip, as they look to bounce back after an 8-wicket defeat by New Zealand. The second Test, starting on 24th October in Pune, gives them a chance to level the series.
In the first Test, rain wiped out the entire first day, and India had to bat under overcast skies on Day 2. The conditions favored New Zealand, with their bowlers making the ball seam around, and India collapsed to just 46 all out, their lowest score at home. New Zealand responded with a massive 402, with Rachin Ravindra scoring a brilliant century.
India showed some fight in their second innings. Rohit Sharma played a solid knock, scoring a fifty, while Virat Kohli looked in good touch before being dismissed for 70. The highlight of India’s innings was Sarfaraz Khan’s remarkable 150, which added some respectability to the score. Rishabh Pant was unlucky to fall for 99, narrowly missing a century. However, despite Pant and Sarfaraz's efforts, India couldn’t build on their partnership and collapsed again, setting a target of just 107 runs. New Zealand chased it down with ease, securing their first Test victory in India since 1988.
India will be keen to bounce back from this rare home defeat. The selectors have called up Washington Sundar to strengthen both the batting and bowling. Another positive development for India is the return of Shubman Gill, who has been declared fit for the second Test and is expected to slot in at No. 3. The team faces a tough decision on whether to drop KL Rahul or Sarfaraz Khan, given Sarfaraz’s form and Rahul’s inconsistency. Rishabh Pant, who picked up a knee injury in the first Test, has recovered and is expected to keep wickets, which is a big boost for India as Pant’s recent form has been outstanding.
The pitch in Pune is likely to be a slow turner, which should suit India’s spinners. With a clear weather forecast after the rainy conditions in Bengaluru, India will be looking to bounce back and level the series. The team has a history of recovering after losing the first game, as seen in their series against England. Expect a thrilling contest as India seek redemption and New Zealand aim to continue their momentum.
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