The disappointment of the first Test loss is now behind Team India. After the setback in Bengaluru, the team is gearing up to bounce back in the crucial second Test against New Zealand, set to begin on Thursday, October 23, in Pune. Trailing 1-0 in the three-match series, the Indian team finds itself in a must-win situation. The upcoming two matches are crucial for India, with no margin for error as they look to level the series.
A victory in the remaining matches is also essential for India to secure their place in the ICC World Test Championship final. Indian players have been seen intensifying their training sessions ahead of the second Test, eager to make the most of home conditions.
India’s Strategy and Possible Changes
While the Bengaluru pitch offered assistance to the pace bowlers, something Rohit Sharma miscalculated, the Pune pitch is expected to have black soil, which traditionally aids spinners. This is good news for India, who will likely rely on their tried-and-tested spin attack on home soil.
Speculation is rife regarding possible changes in India’s playing XI for the second Test. Several players are under scrutiny, with both the batting and bowling departments likely to see significant changes. Head coach Gautam Gambhir could even pull a few surprises.
One of the key concerns is the underwhelming performance of KL Rahul, whose place in the side has been questioned. In the bowling unit, Mohammad Siraj faced criticism for his display in the first Test. However, India has called up Washington Sundar to strengthen their spin options, especially with New Zealand having several left-handed batsmen in their ranks.
India’s potential playing XI for the second Test could include:
Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan / KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant / Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar / Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj / Akashdeep, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand’s Confident Camp
Meanwhile, New Zealand enters the second Test full of confidence after their win in the first match. The Black Caps are eyeing a series win in Pune, which would give them a historic triumph on Indian soil. Their captain, Tom Latham, will lead the charge as the Kiwis aim to replicate their performance in Bengaluru.
However, New Zealand will continue to miss the services of their star batsman Kane Williamson, who is not expected to return for this match. There is only one possible change in New Zealand’s lineup, with Tim Southee or Ish Sodhi likely to be included in place of another player.
New Zealand’s potential playing XI for the second Test:
Tom Latham (captain), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper), Glenn Phillips, Matt Henry, Tim Southee / Ish Sodhi, Ajaz Patel, Will O’Rourke.
A Nail-Biting Clash Awaits
Both teams are well-prepared for what promises to be a thrilling contest on the 22-yard strip in Pune. With both sides eager to clinch the series, cricket fans are in for a nail-biting five days of action. The outcome of this do-or-die match will play a significant role in shaping the rest of the series.