PUNE
India’s struggle against quality spin bowling was starkly highlighted on day two of the second Test against New Zealand on Friday, as the visitors established a commanding 301-run lead. Tom Latham led New Zealand’s charge with an impressive 86 runs, while Mitchell Santner dominated the Indian batting lineup, claiming seven wickets for just 53 runs.
After securing a 103-run first-innings lead, New Zealand reached 198 for 5 at stumps, leaving India facing the prospect of their first home Test series loss to the Kiwis. Latham’s knock, supported by Tom Blundell (30 not out) and Glenn Phillips (7 not out), and showcased New Zealand’s solid performance, particularly against India’s spin attack.
India’s first innings ended prematurely at 156 runs in just 45.3 overs, with six wickets falling for only 91 runs. The home side’s batsmen struggled significantly, exhibiting a lack of composure and technical deficiencies. Washington Sundar shone brightly for India, completing a ten-wicket match haul after taking four wickets in the second innings, but the overall bowling performance was overshadowed by New Zealand’s batting prowess.
The Indian batting lineup faced serious challenges, highlighted by Virat Kohli’s unexpected dismissal after misplaying a full toss from Santner. Other key players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant also fell victim to the pressure exerted by the New Zealand spinners. As India battles to regain control, their unbeaten home record, held since the 2012-13 season, hangs in the balance.
