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For the second time in 2024, India have stumbled at the start of a home Test series, leaving them with an uphill battle to turn the tide against New Zealand. With two Tests remaining, India faces a tough road ahead, needing to regroup and reclaim momentum after a disappointing defeat in the first Test.
New Zealand’s historic victory in Bengaluru breaks a 36-Year drought
New Zealand recorded a significant and long-awaited victory on Indian soil, securing only their third-ever Test win in the country. This triumph, their first in India since 1988, saw the visitors dominate with an emphatic eight-wicket win in Bengaluru. Rachin Ravindra shone as the match-winner with the bat, while the pace duo of Matt Henry and William O’Rourke were instrumental in dismantling India’s batting order with surgical precision, especially in the first innings where the hosts were bundled out for mere 46 runs that was India’s lowest ever score at home in the Test cricket history.
India’s mixed performances in the Bengaluru Test
While India’s defeat raised concerns, there were some bright spots in the batting department, with a few players showing glimpses of form. However, key failures in crucial moments, particularly from senior players, marred the team’s overall performance. The inconsistency within the lineup has raised questions about the balance of the side as they prepare for the second Test.
India are likely to make strategic adjustments ahead of the second Test, which will take place in Pune on October 24. With the series on the line, the team management will be under pressure to address the weaknesses exposed in Bengaluru, refining their playing XI to strike the right combination. A more disciplined and cohesive effort will be needed to level the series and avoid falling further behind.
Also READ: 5 captaincy blunders that cost India the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand
3 possible changes India can consider for the second Test against New Zealand:
1. KL Rahul selection dilemma and tough competition from Sarfaraz Khan
The major selection debate for India ahead of the second Test revolves around KL Rahul and Shubman Gill, especially in light of Sarfaraz Khan’s impressive 150, which has solidified his place in the lineup.
While Sarfaraz’s form is undeniable, Rahul enjoys strong support from the team management for the No. 6 spot, a position he has held onto even when India made adjustments in their batting order during recent Tests. Despite averaging 33.42 this year, Rahul’s notable performances, fighting knocks in tough conditions in South Africa, demonstrate his ability to perform in challenging conditions. Sarfaraz’s recent century certainly bolsters his case, but Rahul’s experience may prove to be a deciding factor in retaining his place. Alternatively, if India opts to capitalize on Sarfaraz’s current form, they could consider replacing Rahul with Gill, who missed the first Test due to a neck injury but remains in good touch.
2. Rishabh Pant’s injury and the wicketkeeper conundrum
Rishabh Pant’s injury, sustained during a stumping attempt in the first Test, has posed a dilemma for India regarding their wicketkeeping options. Pant, already battling discomfort from a previous knee surgery following his car accident last year, was visibly struggling during his innings after the incident. Given the short recovery period between matches, India may opt to rest Pant to prevent further aggravation of the injury. Dhruv Jurel has already shown capability behind the stumps in the first Test. This could make him the natural choice to step in as wicketkeeper for the second Test, allowing Pant time to recover.
3. Akash Deep in, Kuldeep Yadav out: India’s bowling strategy shift
India’s bowling composition for the upcoming Pune Test could witness a shift toward a more pace-dominant approach, given the conditions traditionally favoring fast bowlers at the venue. Despite having a wealth of spin options, including Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, India may limit their spinners to just two or three.
Washington Sundar‘s addition to the squad gives India flexibility, but the need for extra pace on the Pune pitch might see Akash Deep replacing Kuldeep, whose proved to be expensive in the Bengaluru Test. Known for his ability to swing the ball at pace, Akash Deep could pair effectively with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj to provide balance alongside India’s spin attack.
