New Zealand Stuns India: Historic Test Series Win in Pune

Team	1st Innings	2nd Innings
New Zealand	259 (Conway 76; Sundar 7-59)	255 (Latham 86; Sundar 4-56)
India	156 (Santner 7-53)	245 (Jaiswal 77; Santner 6-104)
Result	New Zealand won by 113 runs, leads series 2-0

Team

1st Innings

2nd Innings

New Zealand

259 (Conway 76; Sundar 7-59)

255 (Latham 86; Sundar 4-56)

India

156 (Santner 7-53)

245 (Jaiswal 77; Santner 6-104)

Result

New Zealand won by 113 runs, leads series 2-0

However, New Zealand’s relentless bowling and Santner’s spellbinding control proved too much for the Indian lineup. Santner’s second-innings figures of 6-104 brought his match total to an astonishing 13 wickets, leaving India reeling. In quick succession, Santner claimed the wickets of Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill, neutralizing India’s early momentum and sparking a top-order collapse.

India’s captain Rohit Sharma, who scored just 27 runs, expressed frustration after the match, noting, “It is a collective failure; the team struggled to meet the challenge.”

As India faltered at 147-5, Mitchell Santner continued to dominate with his impeccable bowling. He notably ran out Rishabh Pant and removed key player Virat Kohli, making New Zealand’s victory a near-certainty. Jadeja’s late contribution of 42 runs was India’s last stand before he became the final wicket to fall, leaving New Zealand with a momentous 113-run victory.

With this win, New Zealand has not only ended India’s undefeated run but also cemented their place in history as a team capable of challenging the world’s best in any conditions. The 2-0 series lead in India highlights the Black Caps’ progress in all facets of Test cricket, especially in conditions where they have previously struggled.

Reflecting on the win, Santner remarked, “Every time you take wickets, you get a little more confident. Every wicket was like a boost; it felt better each time.”

This series win also opens up questions for India about their lineup and the role of their spinners, especially against touring sides that have historically struggled on Indian pitches. For New Zealand, this historic achievement will surely serve as a confidence booster as they aim to continue their successful run in Test cricket.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s dominant performance in Pune was a testament to their skill, preparation, and grit. Santner’s career-defining performance will be remembered as a hallmark of their historic victory. For Indian cricket, this loss is a reminder of the unpredictability of Test cricket and the need to adapt strategies when facing resilient sides like New Zealand. With the series now at 2-0, New Zealand has firmly established themselves as one of the formidable forces in modern Test cricket, and their victory on Indian soil is one for the record books.

New Zealand’s triumph has undoubtedly shifted the dynamics of Test cricket, proving that persistence and skill can break even the most steadfast records.