India all out on 156 in 1st Innings against New Zealand : India’s batting lineup struggled against a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack, getting bowled out for a meager 156 runs in their first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing Test match. Left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner was the star of the day, tearing through the Indian batting lineup with a stunning career-best performance of 7 for 53 in 19.3 overs.
India got off to a shaky start after losing captain Rohit Sharma for a duck in just the third over, bowled by Tim Southee. Despite some promise from opener Shubman Gill (30 off 72 balls), no Indian batsman could convert their starts into a substantial score. Gill fell to Santner’s sharp turn, trapped LBW.
India’s middle-order also failed to deliver, with Virat Kohli managing just 1 run before being bowled by Mitchell Santner, much to the disappointment of Indian fans. Kohli’s dismissal left India reeling at 3-56. Rishabh Pant (18 off 19) looked aggressive but couldn’t capitalize on his quick start, losing his wicket to Phillips. Sarfaraz Khan added just 11 runs but was caught off Santner’s bowling.
A stunning delivery from Santner sends Kohli back to the pavilion
Ravindra Jadeja provided some hope with a fighting knock of 38 from 46 deliveries, including 3 boundaries and 2 sixes. He too became a victim of Santner’s brilliant spin, trapped LBW, as India’s chances of posting a competitive total started to slip away. The tail offered little resistance, with Washington Sundar unbeaten on 18 as the last wicket fell.
India’s innings lasted just 45.3 overs, with Mitchell Santner causing major damage. He was supported by Glenn Phillips, who picked up 2 wickets for 26 runs, while Tim Southee claimed the important wicket of Rohit Sharma early in the innings.
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Key Bowling Performance by New Zealand:
Mitchell Santner: 19.3 overs, 7 wickets for 53 runs.
Glenn Phillips: 6 overs, 2 wickets for 26 runs.
Tim Southee: 6 overs, 1 wicket for 18 runs.
New Zealand on Top
With a first-innings total of 156, India will now rely heavily on their bowling attack to keep the match within reach. However, New Zealand has gained the upper hand, thanks to Santner’s brilliant performance, and will be confident heading into their batting innings. India will need a strong effort from their bowlers to stay in contention in this match, as they aim to bounce back after losing the first Test in the series.