India and New Zealand are locked in a intense battle in the second Test of their three-match series, currently underway at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. After a humiliating defeat in the first Test in Bengaluru, India is eager to level the series.
New Zealand, led by Tom Latham, won the toss and chose to bat first. By lunch, they were 92/2 in 31 overs, with Ravichandran Ashwin picking up two crucial wickets to give India some respite. The Kiwis are looking to build on their first Test victory, their first on Indian soil since 1988.
The pitch at Pune is expected to be different from the one in Bengaluru, with less bounce and more assistance for spinners. India has prepared a track that could favour their spin attack, led by Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. The black soil composition of the pitch suggests it will be a slow, low turner, which could pose significant challenges for the New Zealand batsmen.
India’s batting lineup has seen some changes, with Shubman Gill expected to return, potentially at the expense of either KL Rahul or Sarfaraz Khan. Sarfaraz’s impressive 150 in the second innings of the first Test has made a strong case for his inclusion, but coach Gautam Gambhir‘s preference might lean towards giving him a longer run.
Jasprit Bumrah remains a key figure for India, with his ability to swing the ball and generate pace making him a constant threat to the New Zealand batsmen. Despite the potential for a turning pitch, Bumrah’s impact is crucial for India’s chances of leveling the series.
