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India will aim win the three-match series against New Zealand after suffering a heavy eight-wicket defeat in the first Test in Bengaluru. The two teams play again the second Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, that is going to be held on Thursday, October 24.
Rohit Sharma acknowledged his mistake of opting to bat first after winning the toss in the opening match, where New Zealand’s seamers exploited the damp pitch and overcast conditions, bowling India out for just 46 runs—India's lowest Test total in Asia. Matt Henry and William O'Rourke starred with the ball, picking up five and four wickets, respectively.
In response, the New Zealand batsmen took full advantage of the improved conditions, with Devon Conway and Tim Southee contributing aggressive half-centuries. However, the standout performer was Rachin Ravindra, who displayed an impressive range of shots on his way to a sparkling 134 off 157 deliveries. New Zealand posted a formidable total of 402, establishing a massive first-innings lead of 356. Despite a valiant effort from India in their second innings, led by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s fluent half-centuries, Sarfaraz Khan’s knock of 150 and Rishabh Pant’s 99 became the talking points, offering a glimpse into India’s promising future. India posted 462 in their second innings, but New Zealand comfortably chased down the target of 107 with eight wickets in hand, thanks to Will Young and Ravindra’s steady contributions.
The Indian spinners—Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav—were less effective than expected, taking a combined seven wickets but proving costly. However, with the spin-friendly surface in Pune, the trio is expected to have a larger impact, presenting a tougher challenge for the New Zealand batters.
Kohli, who has fond memories of this venue after recording his highest Test score of 254* against South Africa in 2019, looked in good form during the second innings in Bengaluru and will be keen to build on that momentum. On the other hand, New Zealand captain Tom Latham struggled with the bat in both innings, scoring 15 and 0, but his experience on Indian pitches and ability to play spin will be crucial for his side’s chances in Pune.
The pitch in Pune, a black soil surface, is expected to favor spinners, especially in the latter stages of the match. The team that wins the toss will likely opt to bat first to avoid the difficulties of batting in the fourth innings. In terms of team composition, Shubman Gill is expected to return after missing the first Test due to a neck issue, potentially replacing KL Rahul, who struggled with the bat in Bengaluru. There could also be a case for Akash Deep to replace Mohammed Siraj, who had a below-par outing in the first Test.
New Zealand will continue to miss the services of Ben Sears, ruled out before the series, and Kane Williamson, who remains sidelined with a groin injury. This means Will Young will retain his spot at No. 3. With the Pune pitch expected to favor spin, New Zealand may bring in Mitchell Santner or Ish Sodhi in place of Tim Southee to exploit the conditions.
India's probable XI includes: Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj/Akash Deep.