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The second Test match between India and New Zealand in Pune witnessed a remarkable performance by Indian off-spinner Washington Sundar, who claimed a career-best 7-wicket haul to bundle out the New Zealand team for a paltry 259 runs on the opening day. Sundar's exceptional bowling display triggered a collapse in the New Zealand batting order, which had earlier looked comfortable at 197/3. This devastating performance highlighted the crucial role of spinners in the match played on a slow and low Pune wicket.
Sundar's inclusion in the Indian team was a strategic move as the team sought to address the weaknesses exposed in the first Test match. The Indian bowlers, particularly the spinners, exerted immense pressure on the New Zealand batsmen, forcing them to play defensively. While Ashwin and Jadeja also contributed with crucial wickets, Sundar's 7-wicket haul proved to be a game-changer. His ability to spin the ball sharply and test the batsmen's patience ultimately led to their downfall. The match witnessed the first fifer by an Indian spinner at the venue, highlighting Sundar's outstanding performance.
In contrast to the dominant performance of the Indian bowlers, India's batsmen struggled to make a strong start. They lost Rohit Sharma cheaply, bowled for a duck by Tim Southee. However, Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal remained unbeaten at stumps on Thursday, providing a glimmer of hope for India. While India still faces a significant challenge to level the series, the first day's play provided a glimpse of the potential for a thrilling contest. The match is expected to be a closely fought battle, with the spinners likely to play a decisive role in determining the outcome.
The second Test match in Pune has showcased the crucial role of spinners in the modern game, particularly on slow and low wickets. Washington Sundar's exceptional performance has not only highlighted his own talent but also showcased the strategic importance of selecting the right bowlers for the conditions. The match has also presented a test for the Indian batsmen, who will need to overcome their early struggles to challenge New Zealand in the remaining days of the match. The outcome of the second Test will determine the fate of the series, and with the match poised at a crucial juncture, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strengths in the upcoming days.
Source: Washington Sundar's 7-fer bundles out NZ for 259 on opening day in Pune