IND vs NZ 2nd Test Match Highlights
In a remarkable turn of events, New Zealand clinched a historic Test series victory in India, defeating the hosts by 113 runs in the second Test at Pune. This victory marks New Zealand’s first series win on Indian soil, breaking India’s 12-year-long unbeaten home record and halting their 18-series winning streak. Let’s take a look at IND vs NZ 2nd Test Match Highlights.
Mitchell Santner’s outstanding performance, marked by 13 wickets across both innings, was instrumental in this surprising win. India, aiming for a spot in the WTC final, now faces critical questions about their form and strategy.
Known for their strength on home soil, their loss to New Zealand puts their consistency under scrutiny. Despite being favorites, their top-order batsmen struggled against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, particularly Santner’s.
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Key Takeaways: India’s Struggles Continue
- Historic Achievement: New Zealand secured their first-ever Test series win in India.
- Santner’s Excellence: Mitchell Santner took 13 wickets, showcasing skill and control on a challenging pitch.
- India’s Unbeaten Streak Ended: India’s 12-year home dominance in the Test series came to an end.
- WTC Implications: India’s path to the WTC final is now uncertain after this defeat. India needs 4 wins in their remaining 6 test matches.
Santner’s Match-Winning Spell
Mitchell Santner was undoubtedly the star of the show. Bowling on a dry and turning pitch in Pune, Santner utilized his skills and control over spin to trouble Indian batters consistently. His variations in pace and trajectory, coupled with pinpoint accuracy on the good length, paid off immensely.
Santner’s 7-wicket haul in the first innings set the tone, and his 6-wicket spell in the second innings sealed the match for New Zealand, giving him an impressive total of 13 wickets for the match.
A Landmark Victory for New Zealand: First Ever Series Win In India
After a disappointing 0-2 defeat in Sri Lanka, New Zealand came into this series as underdogs, especially without their key player Kane Williamson. Despite the challenges, they rose to the occasion under new captain Tom Latham’s leadership. This young team, with only Latham and Tim Southee boasting over 30 Test caps, exhibited resilience and unity, executing their game plan with remarkable discipline.
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This victory holds significant weight as it marks New Zealand’s first Test series win in India, a feat that eluded them for seven decades. The win not only boosts the team’s morale but also disrupts India’s stronghold at home, throwing the hosts’ path to the World Test Championship (WTC) final into uncertainty.
What’s Next in the New Zealand Tour of India 2024?
As both teams prepare for the final match in Mumbai, India will need to address their batting struggles, while New Zealand aims to carry this momentum forward. The Diwali Test promises to be a captivating encounter with much at stake for both sides.