India is set to host New Zealand for a thrilling three-match Test series, and following the conclusion of the first Test, New Zealand leads the series 1-0. The opening match in Bangalore was a wake-up call for Team India, culminating in a significant defeat on home soil. As a result, India finds itself under immense pressure to secure a favorable outcome in the second Test, which kicks off in Pune on October 24.
India’s Road to Redemption
After a disappointing performance in the first Test, which left India trailing 0-1 in the series, the team needs to regroup and regain momentum. Historically strong at home, this loss could serve as a wake-up call. Mistakes from the toss to a dismal first innings, where they posted their lowest-ever score at home, contributed to the defeat. Although there was a fighting effort in the second innings, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.
With the second Test approaching, India is likely to make some changes. Shubman Gill is fit again and could replace a struggling batter in the lineup. Additionally, Washington Sundar has been included in the squad, which might lead to further adjustments. India aims to level the series in Pune, drawing inspiration from their last home defeat, when they bounced back to win against England in January.
This Indian team has shown adaptability with their new style of play, pushing for results while putting up a strong fight. However, KL Rahul remains under scrutiny due to a series of lackluster performances in longer formats. Questions about his spot in the XI are rampant on social media, but Indian coach Gautam Gambhir defended his inclusion, stating,
“You don't pick players based on social media or what experts say. What the team management thinks is crucial.”
Despite Gambhir's backing, Rahul’s position is uncertain, especially with Shubman Gill returning and Sarfraz Khan’s impressive knock in Bengaluru still fresh in memory.
Pitch Expectations in Pune
Pune is expected to offer a typical subcontinent track, favoring spin from day one. The slow, turning surface is unlikely to provide much bounce, offering minimal assistance to fast bowlers. Both teams boast quality spinners, making for a well-balanced contest.
Indian Team Records at Pune Stadium
- Matches: 2 (Won: 1, Lost: 1)
- Highest Total: 601 for 5 (dec) against South Africa in October 2019
- Lowest Total: 105 all out against Australia in February 2017
- Biggest Win: India beat South Africa by an innings and 137 runs in October 2019
- Biggest Defeat: Australia defeated India by 333 runs in February 2017
As India prepares for the second Test, they’ll look to learn from past mistakes and leverage their strengths to fight back in the series.
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New Zealand Eyes Series Victory After Stunning Win Over India
Following a disappointing series defeat in Sri Lanka, New Zealand faced a significant challenge in India. In a surprising turn, they defeated India by 8 wickets in Bangalore, showcasing their knack for triumphing in major tournaments. From the outset, New Zealand maintained control of the match, bolstered by a fortunate toss that allowed Tom Latham to bat first, a decision he had hoped for. As they say, luck favors the brave, and Latham's leadership led the Kiwis to a memorable victory.
With the momentum on their side, New Zealand aims to carry this confidence into the second Test. However, they will encounter challenges, and an even contest is expected in Pune. To secure another win, the Kiwis will need to step up their game against a resilient Indian side.
Kane Williamson's Absence
Kane Williamson will miss the second Test, as he has not yet recovered from his injury. While New Zealand managed well without him in the first Test, his experience can be pivotal in tight situations. Will Young, who replaced Williamson, did not make a significant impact but is likely to retain his place in the lineup. Despite Williamson’s absence, players like Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra have shown comfort against Indian spinners, easing concerns about the team’s performance.
As New Zealand looks to maintain their winning streak, they are expected to keep the same lineup, with the possibility of Mitchell Santner replacing one of the fast bowlers to adapt to Pune’s spin-friendly conditions.
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Probable Line Up Ahead of the Pune Clash
Both teams may make a few changes based on the conditions. For India, Shubman Gill is fit and likely to replace KL Rahul in the starting lineup. The rest of the team is expected to remain unchanged, maintaining the combination of three spinners and two pacers that was effective in Bangalore, given the spin-friendly conditions anticipated in Pune.
India’s Probable Playing 11
Rohit Sharma(c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishab Pant(wk), Sarfraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
New Zealand may consider bringing in Mitchell Santner to replace William O’Rourke in the playing XI due to the conditions in Pune. This change would give New Zealand two regular spinners in Ajaz Patel and Santner, along with part-time spin options from Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra. With frontline pacers Tim Southee and Matt Henry, along with medium-pace support from Daryl Mitchell, this lineup will effectively cover all bases regardless of the conditions. This flexibility will provide captain Tom Latham with a variety of options to strategize effectively.
New Zealand Probable Playing 11
Tom Latham(c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra,Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell(wk), Glenn Philips, Matt henry, Tim Southee, Mitchell Satner, Ajaz Patel