New Zealand achieved a landmark victory over India by winning a Test series on Indian soil for the first time, breaking India’s 12-year unbeaten home record. In the second Test held in Pune, New Zealand secured a commanding 113-run win, sealing the three-match series 2-0 with one match still to go. It marked the first time New Zealand defeated India in a home Test series, leaving Indian fans stunned and sparking widespread analysis of the team’s performance.
Spin Struggles and Batting Failures Mark India’s Defeat
The Pune Test underscored India’s ongoing struggles against spin bowling, a reversal from previous years when Indian pitches have typically been a fortress for home players against spin-heavy teams like New Zealand, Australia, and England. However, this time it was India’s own batters who appeared lost in the face of New Zealand’s spin, especially against Mitchell Santner. Across both innings, Santner took a staggering 13 wickets, outclassing the Indian lineup.
Despite attempts to stand firm, Indian batters repeatedly misjudged lines and left their defenses vulnerable, succumbing to Santner’s precision. In stark contrast, New Zealand’s batters demonstrated solid technique and adaptability, setting a high standard that proved to be a challenge for India’s spin bowlers.
Match Overview: Key Moments and Stats
In the second Test’s first innings, New Zealand posted a competitive 259 runs. India’s response was disappointing as they were bowled out for 156 runs. New Zealand followed up with a second innings total of 255 runs, setting India a formidable target of 359 runs for victory. India’s second innings folded at 245 runs, resulting in a 113-run defeat.
Virat Kohli’s Form Under Scrutiny
The performance of India’s captain, Virat Kohli, has come under intense scrutiny. Kohli’s struggles against spin were evident once again, especially when he was dismissed off a full toss from Santner in the first innings. Kohli’s form against spin bowlers has been an area of concern, with recent statistics showing that he has scored only 606 runs against spin in Asia over the past three years, with an average of just 28.85. Former India player Sanjay Manjrekar pointed out on social media that Kohli’s shot selection was a lapse in judgment and a low point in his career.
Former Indian coach Anil Kumble also voiced concerns, suggesting that Kohli might benefit from playing in domestic cricket to regain his confidence and rhythm against spin bowling. According to Kumble, “Playing even a couple of innings in domestic matches could bring success, offering more practical experience than regular practice.”
The Strategic Errors and New Zealand’s Spin Mastery
The Indian squad initially brought in Washington Sundar to counter New Zealand’s left-handed batters. While Sundar took seven wickets in the first innings, Santner balanced this out with seven wickets of his own, applying relentless pressure on India’s batters. Despite being a traditionally strong team against spin, India found themselves overpowered by New Zealand’s precise and relentless bowling attack.
New Zealand has previously struggled against spin on the subcontinent, notably losing to Sri Lanka due to similar challenges. However, this time they turned the tables, using their spin prowess to win on Indian soil—a challenging feat for any visiting team.
India’s Chase and the Memory of the 2008 Chennai Test
During India’s fourth innings in Pune, they were set a challenging target of 359 runs. Fans were reminded of India’s remarkable chase of 387 runs against England in Chennai in 2008. That Test featured unforgettable knocks by Sehwag and Tendulkar. The Indian coach Gautam Gambhir, who was part of the 2008 squad, likely referenced that Chennai Test to inspire Rohit Sharma’s team. Rohit and Yashasvi Jaiswal started aggressively, but they could not replicate the partnership of Sehwag and Gambhir. Kohli’s performance, in particular, was disappointing as he fell for just 17 runs.
In that memorable 2008 Test, Yuvraj Singh’s 85 not out secured victory, but in Pune, India lacked a similar finisher. Commentator Ravi Shastri pointed out, “The difference is striking; in Chennai, Sehwag set the pace, and Yuvraj finished it. Can today’s players step up in the same way?”
Challenges Ahead for the Indian Team
India’s spin woes indicate a clear need for strategic improvements. As the team faces the final Test in Mumbai, another daunting task awaits. New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel previously made history by taking all 10 wickets in a single innings on this ground, a record that looms as a reminder of New Zealand’s growing expertise against Indian conditions.
Looking forward, India’s batters will need to work extensively on techniques to combat spin, an aspect that has historically been their strength but has recently shown vulnerability. Coaches and players alike will have to revisit strategies and approaches, especially for players like Kohli who have struggled to adapt against the skilled spin attacks from overseas teams.