NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali believes that India face an uphill task to make a comeback in the second Test against New Zealand at MCA Stadium in Pune.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Basit remarked, “Rohit Sharma aur Virat Kohli agar runs kare (If Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli score runs) — two big names who failed in the first innings—there might be a possibility (of a comeback). But the chances are very low right now. New Zealand are in a very strong position to win the match… Before the Australia tour, this is not a good sign for India. Let’s see what happens.”
New Zealand have taken control of the Test, leading by 301 runs at stumps on day two, thanks to a brilliant performance by left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, who grabbed 7-53 to dismantle India’s batting lineup.
India were bowled out for just 156 in response to New Zealand’s 259, giving the visitors a 103-run first-innings lead on a challenging Pune pitch.
By the end of the day, New Zealand reached 198-5 in their second innings, with Tom Latham scoring a solid 86.
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Wicketkeeper Tom Blundell (30 not out) and Glenn Phillips (9 not out) remained unbeaten, steering New Zealand closer to what could be 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.
India’s batting collapse in the first innings was another disappointment, following their 46 all-out debacle in Bengaluru.
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Ravindra Jadeja top-scored with 38, but wickets tumbled regularly. Santner’s spin exposed India’s vulnerabilities, with crucial dismissals, including Virat Kohli for just one and Sarfaraz Khan for 11.
With New Zealand already 1-0 up in the three-match series, Basit Ali’s doubts about India’s comeback seem justified.
India’s struggles with the bat are particularly concerning ahead of their upcoming Australia tour. At the moment, New Zealand appear to be firmly in control, leaving India searching for answers.
