India posted a moderate but fighting score in then first innings. The score of 242 looked too little as the Kiwis opening stand produced good score. Yet, Indian bowlers bowled well and fought hard to keep fighting. But, in their second innings Indian batsmen were unable to battle hard for the sake winning the game to level the Test series. However, Rishabh Pant is still on the crease as the second day ended in favor of the Kiwis.
Kiwis in the first session played miserably and given 5 wickets for 79 runs produced before lunch. Strike bowler Jasprit Bumrah bowled well and equally he was supported well by India’s ace Mohammed Shami.
Shami took crucial wickets including the wicket of inform Kiwi batsman Latham. Mohammed Shami bowled aggressively to claim 4 wickets for 81 runs. Jasprit Bumrah also bowled better this time as the strike bowler returned to form. He claimed 3 wickets for 62 runs.
The game was on until Cheteshwar Pujara got himself out cheaply as he was clean bowled by Trent Boult. Next two best batsmen were also cheaply got out. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane could’ve taken the game away from New Zealand.
What Rishabh Pant can Provide
India’s second innings score looks at a sorry stage reading as 90/6. This might be hurting but Rishabh Pant can provide momentum to Indian innings. He needs to bat well according to his limitations and play his natural game. If Rishabh Pant can take India cross a lead of over 230 odd runs along with other batsmen to follow. Then it will be tough for the Kiwis to reach the target in the fourth innings.
Indian bowlers shined in this Test match but the batters failed to impress Indian fans. However, Rishabh can keep India’s hope alive on day three. Let’s not forget that if he plays the best cricket then Indian team benefits a lot. He needs to pull his socks and bat as long as possible. India only needs a lead of over 230 and that will be enough to level the series. Pant needs to strengthen Indian score with couple of good partnerships from down the order. It looks that India can still fightback and level the Test series.
