IND vs NZ 2nd Test Day 2: New Zealand Takes Command with Significant Lead

The second Test match between India and New Zealand has seen a dominant performance from the New Zealand team, particularly on Day 2. New Zealand, after being bowled out for 259 in their first innings, managed to restrict India to a mere 156 runs, thereby securing a crucial lead of 103 runs.

Mitchell Santner was the star of the show for New Zealand, taking an impressive seven-wicket haul to dismantle the Indian batting lineup. His relentless bowling, especially in the first session, left the Indian batters struggling to cope with the spin-friendly conditions of the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

India’s innings was marked by brief resistance from Ravindra Jadeja, but Santner’s consistent pressure ensured that the Indian tail was quickly wrapped up. The last wicket to fall was that of Jasprit Bumrah, who was given out lbw after a review confirmed the umpire’s decision.

As the match progressed into the third innings, New Zealand found themselves in a strong position, with India facing a significant deficit. New Zealand’s lead of 103 runs puts them in a commanding position, especially considering the deteriorating pitch conditions which are expected to favor spin bowling even more in the coming days.

At the end of Day 2, New Zealand had India at 89/3, still trailing by 14 runs. The match is poised for an exciting finish as India battles to stay in the game and keep their World Test Championship Final qualification hopes alive).