IND vs NZ: After two days of exhilarating cricket, the Test match is poised for an exciting conclusion tomorrow. Day 2 saw a total of 348 runs scored and 15 wickets tumble on a challenging wicket, providing fans with a spectacle of aggressive batting and strategic bowling.
Stumps on Day 2 in Mumbai!
— BCCI (@BCCI) November 2, 2024
A fine bowling display from #TeamIndia as New Zealand reach 171/9 in the 2nd innings.
See you tomorrow for Day 3 action 👋
Scorecard – https://t.co/KNIvTEy04z#INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/zJcPNgGWuJ
Aggressive Batting Sets The Tone
Rishabh Pant ignited the day’s play with two explosive boundaries off the first two balls, ultimately reaching a rapid half-century in just 36 balls. Shubman Gill was the top scorer for India, contributing a solid 90 runs, while Washington Sundar added an unbeaten 38 to help India secure a 28-run lead in the first innings.
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New Zealand Struggles In Second Innings
Despite Akash Deep’s early breakthrough with the new ball, New Zealand’s Will Young managed to accumulate valuable runs alongside Devon Conway and Tom Mitchell. However, Indian spinners maintained their pressure, leading to New Zealand’s precarious position at 143 for 9 in their second innings. India aims to clean up the tail quickly before chasing down the target.
Pride And WTC Points At Stake
Although the series has been lost, both teams are vying for pride and 12 crucial WTC points. Fans can expect a thrilling conclusion as India looks to finish strong on the final day of the series.
Ashwin’s Insights On Match Strategy
Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on the dismissal of Mitchell, emphasizing his focus and trust in his catching abilities. He discussed his use of the carrom ball, noting the varying conditions on different sides of the pitch. “It’s not going to be easy, and we need to bat well,” Ashwin remarked, highlighting the challenges ahead.
Lower Order Collapse For New Zealand
The New Zealand lower order has struggled throughout the series, with notable collapses in both innings:
Pune, 1st Innings: 62/7 (Final: 259)
Pune, 2nd Innings: 24/5 (Final: 255)
Mumbai, 1st Innings: 76/7 (Final: 235)
Mumbai, 2nd Innings: 77/6 (Current: 171/9)
With 29 wickets fallen in the first two days, this Test has set a record for the most wickets at this venue, surpassing the previous high of 25 in the 2000 India-South Africa Test.
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