The second time in 2024 India They stumbled at the start of the home Test series, leaving them with an uphill battle to bounce back New Zealand. With two Tests remaining, India have a tough road ahead, needing to regroup and regain momentum after a disappointing defeat in the first Test.
New Zealand’s historic win in Bengaluru ended a 36-year drought
New Zealand secured a significant and long-awaited victory on Indian soil, securing only their third Test victory in the country. The victory, India’s first since 1988, saw the visitors dominate with an eight-wicket victory in Bengaluru. Rachin Ravindra The duo’s pace as the match winner shined with the bat Matt Henry and William O’Rourke They were instrumental in dismantling India’s batting order with surgical precision, especially in the first innings when the hosts were bundled out for just 46 runs, India’s lowest score at home in Test cricket history.
India’s mixed performances in the Bengaluru Test
While India’s defeat was a concern, there were some bright spots in the batting department, with several players showing glimpses of form. However, key failures at crucial moments, especially by senior players, marred the team’s overall performance. The inconsistency in the squad has raised questions about the balance of the side heading into the second Test.
India are likely to make strategic adjustments ahead of the second Test in Pune on October 24. With the series on the line, the team management will be under pressure to overcome the weaknesses revealed in Bengaluru and improve their 11th game further. click the correct combination. It will take a more disciplined and unified effort to level the series and not fall further behind.
Also READ: 5 captain mistakes that cost India the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand
3 possible changes India could consider for the second Test against New Zealand:
1. KL Rahul selection dilemma and stiff competition from Sarfaraz Khan
Ahead of the second Test, the main selection debate for India revolves around KL Rahul and Shubman Gillespecially in the light of Sarfaraz Khans impressive 150, cemented his place in the ranks.
While Sarfaraz’s form is undeniable, Rahul has strong support from the team management for the No.6 spot, a position he has maintained even as India tweaked their batting order during the recent Tests. Despite averaging 33.42 this year, Rahul’s remarkable performances in tough conditions in South Africa showcase his ability to perform in tough conditions. Sarfaraz’s last century certainly strengthens his case, but Rahul’s experience could be the deciding factor in retaining his place. Alternatively, if India want to capitalize on Sarfaraz’s current form, they may consider replacing Rahul, who missed the first Test with a neck injury but has been in good touch, with Gill.
2. Rishabh Pant’s injury and the goalkeeping conundrum
Rishabh pantsAn injury sustained during a stumping attempt in the first Test created a dilemma for India over their wicketkeeping options. Pant, who suffered from previous knee surgery following a car accident last year, was visibly struggling during his shots after the incident. Given the short recovery period between matches, India may opt to rest Pant to prevent further aggravation of the injury. Dhruv Jurel has already shown his ability behind the stumps in the first Test. That could make him a natural choice to recruit as wicket-keeper for the second Test, allowing Pant to regain some time.
3. Akash Deep, Kuldeep Yadav out: India’s bowling strategy changes
India’s bowling line-up for the upcoming Pune Test could witness a shift towards a more pace-dominant approach, given the conditions at the venue that traditionally favor fast bowlers. Despite the wealth of spin options including Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akhar Patel and Kuldeep YadavIndia can restrict their spinners to just two or three.
Washington Sundar‘s addition to the squad gives India comfort, but the Pune pitch may need some extra pace. Akash Deep He replaced Kuldeep, who proved costly in the Bengaluru Test. Known for his ability to swing the ball fast, Akash Deep could pair up effectively jasprit bumrah and Muhammad Siraj Providing balance along with India’s spin attack.
