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On Day 2 of the second Test between India and New Zealand at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, Washington Sundar provided India with a crucial breakthrough as the right-arm off-spinner dismissed New Zealand opener Devon Conway.
Washington Sundar strikes early in New Zealand’s 2nd innings
In the 10th over of New Zealand’s second innings, Sundar trapped Conway with a sharp delivery, dismissing him LBW for 17 off 25 balls. Attempting a sweep shot, Conway misread a full ball that straightened down the middle, prompting umpire Paul Reiffel to confidently raise his finger. Though replays later revealed a faint under-edge via UltraEdge, Conway opted not to review the decision. His short stay, featuring two boundaries, came to an end, giving India a timely breakthrough as they worked to challenge New Zealand’s growing lead.
Here is the video:
Washington Sundar does it again! 💥#INDvNZ #TeamIndia #IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/S4TI3BFS22
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) October 25, 2024
Also WATCH: Virat Kohli bamboozled by Mitchell Santner’s full toss on Day 2 of the second Test | IND vs NZ
India aims for a fightback
Earlier in the day, India’s batting lineup failed to find its footing, collapsing for a paltry 156 in their first innings. None of the Indian batters could make a substantial impact, and the team struggled against Kiwi’s disciplined bowling attack. This disappointing performance meant that New Zealand started their second innings with a solid 103-run lead, putting India on the back foot as they looked to turn the match in their favour.
At the end of the Tea Break, New Zealand’s second-innings score stood at 85 for 2, extending their overall lead to a commanding 188 runs. With wickets in hand and favorable batting conditions, New Zealand seemed poised to build a sizable target for India. The Indian bowlers will need to step up significantly to prevent New Zealand from running away with the game.
New Zealand skipper Tom Latham remained unbeaten on 37 at Tea, accompanied by Rachin Ravindra, who made headlines with a brilliant century in the first Test against India. Ravindra’s form and Latham’s steady presence suggest that New Zealand could set an imposing target if the pair continues to build their partnership. For India, breaking this stand quickly after Tea is crucial to keeping their hopes alive in this Test.