New Zealand has taken a commanding position against India, building a 301-run lead by the close of day two in the second Test in Pune, putting India’s remarkable 12-year unbeaten home Test series record in jeopardy. The Black Caps, fresh off a historic victory in Bengaluru, are now poised to secure a 2-0 lead in the three-match series—a result that would end India’s sequence of 18 consecutive home series wins since England’s 2-1 triumph in December 2012.
India, led by Rohit Sharma, faced a tough setback, bowled out for 156 in response to New Zealand’s first-innings total of 259. Kiwi left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner starred with the ball, taking 7-59 as India struggled to gain ground.
New Zealand then pushed their advantage further, closing the day at 198-5 in their second innings, with Captain Tom Latham top-scoring with 86 and wicketkeeper Tom Blundell unbeaten on 30. India’s off-spinner Washington Sundar, who also took 7-59 in New Zealand’s first innings, again led the bowling effort, claiming 4-56 and dismissing Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, both of whom had made half-centuries in the first innings.
With two days remaining, New Zealand aims to extend their lead further, as Blundell and Glenn Phillips resume on day three, eyeing a target that could give them the historic series-clinching victory and break India’s proud home streak.
