As we gear up for the third innings in the Ind vs NZ 2nd Test in Pune, spin has taken center stage with a staggering 19 wickets falling to spinners in the first two innings. This matches the joint second-most wickets claimed by spin across the first two innings of a Test in India, showcasing the influence of spin-friendly conditions.
Most wickets to spin across the first two innings in Tests in India:
- 20 wickets – Ind vs Eng (Kanpur, 1952)
- 19 wickets – Ind vs NZ (Nagpur, 1969)** – New Zealand’s maiden Test win in India
- 19 wickets – Ind vs NZ (Pune, 2024)*
With Mitchell Santner leading the charge for New Zealand with his sensational 7/53 and spin wreaking havoc on both sides, the game now enters a crucial phase. As New Zealand heads into the third innings, they will be looking to build on their 103-run lead, while India’s response will depend heavily on their ability to counter the relentless spin.
This Test has already etched its place in history alongside other spin-dominated matches in India, and with more to come, all eyes will be on how the two sides navigate the conditions moving forward.