Ravindra Jadeja’s exceptional left-arm spin, combined with his fielding prowess and batting contributions, has solidified his position as India’s premier Test spinner. With the Pune pitch expected to favor spinners significantly more than the Bengaluru surface, New Zealand may opt to include Mitchell Santner in their playing XI.
According to Ryan ten Doeschate, India’s assistant coach, there is optimism that Rishabh Pant will be fit to resume wicketkeeping duties in the second Test after sustaining a knee injury in the series opener. However, a selection battle is brewing between middle-order batters KL Rahul and Sarfaraz Khan, with head coach Gautam Gambhir keen on giving Rahul an extended run.
India’s team selection remains a closely guarded secret, with the home side keeping their cards close to their chest. The team is eager to bounce back from their 0-1 deficit in the three-match series, not only to level the series but also to maintain their hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final.
