IND vs NZ 2nd Test: In a rare turn of events, India found themselves on the receiving end of a devastating spin attack, folding for just 156 in Pune as Mitchell Santner spun a web around the hosts. Known for tormenting visiting teams with spin in sub-continental conditions, this time India were the ones undone by some remarkable bowling. Santner’s performance was exceptional, claiming a brilliant 7/53, while Glenn Phillips also chipped in with a couple of key wickets.
After losing captain Rohit Sharma late on the previous day, Gill and Jaiswal began the day cautiously. However, Gill was trapped LBW early, followed by Virat Kohli, who was bowled by a deceptive full toss. What followed was a rapid collapse, with India losing six wickets in the morning session alone.
Post lunch, Ravindra Jadeja attempted a counterattack with some big shots, but once he fell, the rest of the batting line-up quickly crumbled. Santner, with his consistent line, length, and variations in pace, kept India’s batters guessing, making full use of the deteriorating pitch. His efforts culminated in the dismissal of Jasprit Bumrah to seal the innings, trapping him LBW and leaving India with a massive deficit.
New Zealand now lead by 117 runs going into the third innings, and with the psychological advantage of out-bowling India on their home soil, they stand on the verge of a historic achievement.