India’s hopes of a comeback in the second Test against New Zealand at the MCA Stadium in Pune appear bleak, according to former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali. The visitors have taken a commanding lead of 301 runs at the end of day two, thanks to a brilliant performance by left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner.
Santner’s 7-53 dismantled India’s batting lineup, bowling them out for just 156 in response to New Zealand’s 259. India’s batting woes continued from their 46 all-out debacle in Bengaluru, with Ravindra Jadeja top-scoring with 38.
“If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli score runs, there might be a possibility (of a comeback),” said Basit Ali on his YouTube channel. “But the chances are very low right now. New Zealand are in a very strong position to win the match.”
New Zealand extended their lead to 198-5 in their second innings, with Tom Latham scoring a solid 86. Wicketkeeper Tom Blundell (30 not out) and Glenn Phillips (9 not out) remained unbeaten, steering New Zealand closer to a historic Test series win in India.
India’s bowlers, led by Washington Sundar, showed some resistance. Sundar picked up four wickets, bringing his match tally to 11, while Ravichandran Ashwin chipped in with a key breakthrough. However, New Zealand’s batters extended their lead, leaving India in a tough spot.
“Before the Australia tour, this is not a good sign for India,” added Basit Ali. “Let’s see what happens.”
India’s batting collapse has exposed their vulnerabilities, particularly against spin. Santner’s dismissals of Virat Kohli for just one and Sarfaraz Khan for 11 were crucial.
With New Zealand already 1-0 up in the three-match series, India face an uphill task to level the series. Their struggles with the bat are particularly concerning ahead of their upcoming Australia tour.
