IND vs NZ: 2nd Test, Day 2 Review – Latham, Santner put New Zealand in driver’s seat
Day 2 of the second Test between India and New Zealand in Pune saw New Zealand take control, establishing a substantial 301-run lead. Starting the day with India trailing, New Zealand’s bowlers dominated by dismissing India for a modest 156 runs. India’s top order crumbled under pressure, with only Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja showing some resistance. Santner’s impressive five-wicket haul and Phillips’ two scalps proved too challenging for India, leaving them with a steep uphill battle.
New Zealand’s second innings saw Tom Latham lead the charge with a steady 86 off 133 balls, giving the visitors a solid foundation. Washington Sundar, one of India’s brighter bowling prospects, managed to keep New Zealand from fully running away with the game, taking four wickets to break critical partnerships. However, the Indian bowlers struggled to contain the New Zealand batters as they quickly accumulated runs, setting a formidable target for India.
As Day 2 wrapped up, India faced a daunting task with New Zealand’s score at 198 for 5. While Sundar’s performance provided some relief, India’s need for breakthroughs on Day 3 is critical to keep their chances alive. With New Zealand’s lead growing, the Indian team must capitalize on early wickets tomorrow to maintain any realistic hope of a comeback.
Top Performers of the day
New Zealand’s spinner Mitchell Santner was the standout performer, delivering a masterful spell to claim seven Indian wickets. His precision and variations kept India’s batters constantly guessing, taking crucial wickets, including the prized dismissals of Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja. Santner’s controlled performance decimated India’s lineup, leaving them all out for 156 and paving the way for New Zealand to secure a significant lead on Day 2.
In New Zealand’s second innings, captain Tom Latham provided stability with a well-crafted 86 off 133 balls. Latham’s disciplined approach allowed him to build partnerships and frustrate India’s bowlers, setting a strong foundation for New Zealand’s lead. His steady knock anchored the innings even as wickets fell at the other end, enabling New Zealand to further solidify their advantage.
Despite the challenging position, Washington Sundar emerged as India’s top bowler, taking four wickets in New Zealand’s second innings. Sundar’s effective line and length troubled New Zealand’s middle order, as he claimed the crucial wickets of Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Tom Latham. His consistent breakthroughs were key in slowing New Zealand’s scoring rate, giving India some hope to keep the lead in check as Day 2 concluded
