In the Ind vs NZ 2nd Test in Pune, Mitchell Santner delivered a remarkable bowling performance, taking a career-best 7/53. This brilliant spell also earned him his maiden 5-wicket haul in Test cricket, which came after playing 54 Tests. Santner now joins an elite list of New Zealand bowlers who took the most number of wickets before achieving their first 5-wicket haul.
Most wickets before maiden 5-wicket haul in Tests (New Zealand):
- John Reid – 63 wickets
- Richard Collinge – 61 wickets
- Mitchell Santner – 54 wickets
- Bevan Congdon – 51 wickets
- Tony MacGibbon – 50 wickets
Adding to his impressive feat, Santner secured four LBW dismissals in his 7-wicket haul, which is the joint most by any bowler in a single innings in India. The last visiting spinner to achieve this was Steve O’Keefe at the same venue in 2017.
Santner’s clever use of trajectory, consistent line, and subtle pace variations troubled the Indian batters throughout the innings. His efforts played a pivotal role in dismissing the hosts for a mere 156 runs, putting New Zealand in the driver’s seat. The left-arm spinner took advantage of the crumbling pitch, and his LBW dismissals showcased his ability to deceive the batsmen with both flight and turn.
Santner’s performance marks a significant moment in the match, as New Zealand now holds a strong position, and with Santner leading their bowling attack, they are poised for a possible historic victory in the sub-continent.