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IND vs NZ, 2nd Test, Pune: Cricket fans are watching in disbelief as New Zealand edges toward a historic win over India on their home turf. Pune has become a battleground, with New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner putting on a Santner India win masterclass to give his team an imposing 103-run first-innings lead—golden on a pitch turning as sharply as India’s fortune.
Santner India win Dominates, India Struggles
From the morning session, New Zealand came out with intent, and Santner, who had struggled just recently in Sri Lanka, seemed like a new bowler. He turned Pune’s pitch into his playground, showing finesse with every delivery and dismantling India’s lineup with his career-best 7/53. The day started with promise for India as openers Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal held their ground, but that momentum was short-lived. Santner broke through by trapping Gill and then sent Kohli back with a deceptive full toss that shifted the match’s momentum instantly.
Jadeja’s aggressive shots showed brief resistance, but once he was caught, the rest of the lineup folded under pressure. Glenn Phillips supported Santner with two key wickets, adding to India’s misery as they trailed by over a hundred runs.
New Zealand in Control, Lead Surges Past 300
Taking full advantage of the lead, New Zealand’s batters charged forward in their second innings. With a lead surpassing 300 and five wickets in hand, they’re in prime position. Tom Latham led the charge, scoring freely, while India’s spinners, including Ashwin, could do little to stop them.
The only silver lining for India was Washington Sundar’s steady performance, picking up four wickets. But even as Ashwin slowed his deliveries to adjust, the Kiwis looked confident, sweeping and dancing down the track, making the most of every run.
India’s Record in Jeopardy
India’s formidable 18-series home streak is on the line, with New Zealand poised to break through. It’s a rare sight to see India cornered like this at home, and fans are left wondering if a miracle awaits on Day 4. Will India pull off a miraculous turnaround, or will New Zealand seal a series win that cricket fans will talk about for years?
