IND vs NZ [WATCH]: Ravichandran Ashwin removes Tom Latham with an absolute beauty on Day 1 of 2nd Test

India‘s Ravichandran Ashwin delivered a moment of brilliance to send New Zealand captain Tom Latham back to the pavilion in the early stages of Day 1 of the 2nd Test at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Thursday (October 24). In just his fifth delivery of the day, Ashwin produced a textbook off-spinner that left Latham helpless.

Ravichandran Ashwin takes out Tom Latham with a magical delivery

The ball drifted beautifully in the air, angling towards middle and leg, forcing Latham to commit to a defensive stroke. However, it turned sharply away after pitching, beating the outside edge and crashing into Latham’s pads. With no hesitation, the umpire raised his finger for a straightforward lbw decision, and Latham, knowing he was trapped dead in front, wisely chose not to review.

Ashwin’s delivery was a masterclass in control and spin, completely outfoxing Latham, who had looked comfortable until then, scoring 15 off 22 balls. His wicket broke New Zealand’s solid start, reducing them to 32/1 and giving India an early breakthrough on a crucial day. Ashwin’s ability to exploit the conditions was on full display, and this dismissal marked the beginning of India’s counterattack.

Here’s the video:

Ashwin strikes in his first over ☝️

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Steady New Zealand start despite early setback against India

New Zealand began their innings with confidence after captain Latham won the toss and chose to bat first in the second Test at Pune. The Blackcaps, leading the three-match series 1-0, were looking to build on their momentum and assert early dominance. Nevertheless, their captain Latham was the first to depart, falling victim to Ashwin’s sharp turner for 15 in the 8th over. Latham’s dismissal left New Zealand at 32/1, a blow just as the team seemed to be settling in.

Despite the setback, opener Devon Conway and number three batter Will Young ensured that there were no further casualties heading into the drinks break. Conway, who has been in solid form, played cautiously but effectively, scoring 27* off 53 balls with four boundaries. His calculated approach allowed New Zealand to keep the scoreboard ticking while Young supported him well, contributing 9* from 25 deliveries.

At lunch, New Zealand had reached 92/2 after 31 overs, maintaining a reasonable run rate over 3 and further lost the key wicket of Young. They will now look to consolidate further, with Conway anchoring the innings and Rachin Ravindra providing stability. The challenge from India’s spin attack, led by Ashwin and Washington Sundar, will intensify as the pitch begins to offer more turn later in the day.

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