IND vs NZ [WATCH]: Ravichandran Ashwin’s spin magic to dismiss Devon Conway on Day 2 of the first Test

Ravichandran Ashwin delivered a crucial breakthrough for India on Day 2 of the first Test against New Zealand. In the New Zealand’s first innings, Ashwin clean-bowled Devon Conway, who was looking dangerous at the crease.

Ravichandran Ashwin outsmarts Devon Conway

In the 40th over, Ashwin cleaned bowled Conway, in what can only be described as a battle of wits, Conway, who had been aggressive against Ashwin early in the innings, was caught off-guard by the off-spinner’s brilliant strategy. Ashwin, aware that Conway might go for an attacking shot again, bowled a very full delivery from around the wicket. Conway, attempting a premeditated reverse sweep, misjudged the delivery, leaving his middle and leg stumps exposed. The ball knocked him over, much to the delight of the Indian side.

After the dismissal, the third umpire was called in to verify if the reserved Indian wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel‘s gloves had breached the back of the stumps during the delivery. According to the rule, if the keeper’s gloves are ahead of the backline from a side-on angle, it would be deemed a no-ball. However, the review showed that Jurel was in the clear, and the dismissal stood.

Here is the video:

Timber strike, ft. R Ashwin! 👌 👌

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— BCCI (@BCCI) October 17, 2024

Conway, who had batted brilliantly up to that point, departed for 91 off 105 balls, including 11 fours and 3 sixes.

Also READ: IND vs NZ: Michael Vaughan mocks Indian fans as Rohit Sharma & Co. collapse to their lowest Test total on home soil

New Zealand pacers dominate India’s batting

India’s batting lineup collapsed earlier in the match, managing a dismal 46 runs in their first innings. None of the Indian batters could contribute significant runs, with five of them getting out for ducks. This marked India’s third-lowest total in Test cricket.

New Zealand’s fast bowlers were in complete control during India’s innings. Matt Henry delivered a sensational performance, claiming a five-wicket haul, while the young William O’Rourke impressed with 4 wickets. Tim Southee, the Black Caps’ skipper, also chipped in with a crucial wicket, dismissing India’s captain, Rohit Sharma. The pace trio tore through India’s lineup, making it a day to forget for the home side.

In response to India’s low total, New Zealand asserted dominance, finishing Day 2 at 180 for 3. Conway was the standout performer, falling just 9 runs short of a well-deserved century. His incredible half-century laid a solid foundation for New Zealand. Ashwin, after his key dismissal of Conway, was joined by spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja, who took one wicket each, keeping some pressure on the Kiwis.

By the end of Day 2, New Zealand had established a commanding lead of 134 runs. With seven wickets in hand, they are in a strong position to build on their advantage and set a challenging target for India.

Also READ: IND vs NZ: 3 reasons behind India’s batting collapse in the first Test