The second Test between India and New Zealand in Pune witnessed a captivating Day 1, with fortunes fluctuating between the two sides. After a disappointing loss in the series opener, India showed resilience, thanks to a sensational bowling performance by Washington Sundar, who claimed an impressive seven-wicket haul.
New Zealand, opting to bat first after winning the toss, started confidently, with openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway building a solid foundation. However, the introduction of spin into the attack turned the tide in India's favor.
Ravichandran Ashwin struck early, dismissing Latham in the eighth over, and then Conway fell to a seemingly innocuous delivery shortly after lunch. This opened the door for Sundar, who spun a web around the New Zealand middle order. He claimed the crucial wickets of Rachin Ravindra and Tom Blundell, followed by Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Mitchell Santner, putting the brakes on New Zealand's progress.
Despite a fighting half-century from Conway (76) and a promising start from Ravindra (65), New Zealand were eventually bowled out for 259 in 79.1 overs. Sundar's exceptional spell, his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket, proved to be the turning point, giving India a much-needed advantage after their first Test debacle.
India's response with the bat was cautious, as they ended the day at 16/1, trailing by 243 runs. The loss of Rohit Sharma for a duck was a setback, but Yashasvi Jaiswal (6*) and Shubman Gill (10*) will be looking to build a solid partnership on Day 2 and guide India to a strong position in the match.
This Test match has already provided plenty of drama and excitement, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. Day 2 promises to be another captivating chapter, as India aims to capitalize on Sundar's heroics and build a substantial lead, while New Zealand will be looking to strike early with the ball and put pressure on the Indian batsmen.
