New Zealand continued to dominate India in the second Test in Pune, extending their lead to 315 runs by Day 3. After posting 259 in their first innings, New Zealand reached 212/5 in their second innings, with Glenn Phillips (19*) and Tom Blundell (34) currently at the crease. The visitors have been in control, capitalizing on the turning pitch that has troubled the Indian bowlers.
India’s spinners, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, bowled well but have struggled to contain New Zealand’s batters, who employed sweeps and reverse sweeps to great effect. Captain Tom Latham led the charge with 86 runs, before being dismissed by Washington Sundar.
New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner reflected on the team’s strong position, noting how partnerships were crucial on a challenging wicket. The spin-friendly conditions, which have favored the visitors, could pose significant challenges for India in their chase, as they look to bowl out New Zealand quickly and mount a historic comeback.
India will need their key spinners, Jadeja and Ashwin, to deliver crucial breakthroughs if they are to stay in the contest. New Zealand, on the other hand, will aim to build on their commanding lead and secure what could be a monumental victory on Indian soil.