IND VS NZ 2ND TEST

New Zealand made history at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, claiming a stunning Test win on Indian soil after 36 long years. Their previous victories here were way back in 1969 and 1988, making this triumph all the more special, especially without their talismanic batter, Kane Williamson, who missed out due to injury. Despite his absence, the Kiwis showed remarkable resilience, and this victory will fuel their confidence as they head to Pune, looking to repeat their heroics at the MCA Stadium. Losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, New Zealand might have expected a long, grueling day. But under overcast skies, their pacers struck gold, bundling out India for a shocking 46 runs - their lowest ever Test total at home. The Kiwis seized the momentum with Rachin Ravindra leading the charge, smashing a brilliant century, while Devon Conway just missed out on one himself. However, their new skipper, Tom Latham, will need to step up and contribute more in Pune, especially with a strong Indian side determined to bounce back. New Zealand’s middle order of Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, and Glenn Phillips also have to come to the party. Their weakness against spin was exposed during the Sri Lanka series, and they will need to improve dramatically if they are to clinch the series here - a crucial step toward making the World Test Championship final. On the bowling front, Matt Henry was the star, grabbing a five-wicket haul in the first innings and backing it up with three more in the second. William O'Rourke continued his subcontinental success, while veteran Tim Southee was instrumental both with the ball and a crucial half-century with the bat. Ajaz Patel thrived in the conditions, and Phillips continued his golden touch. New Zealand may even bring in Mitchell Santner, whose experience could prove decisive in these tricky conditions. India, meanwhile, will be reeling after that historic low. However, there were still plenty of positives for Rohit Sharma and his men. Despite the shocking collapse, India showed immense character, led by the brilliant Rishabh Pant, who fell agonizingly short of a century on 99, and Sarfaraz Khan's outstanding 150 - his maiden Test ton. These performances not only brought India back into the contest but even gave them a glimmer of hope for victory, which the Kiwis ultimately snatched away. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s half-centuries were also encouraging signs, while Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to impress at the top. Shubman Gill missed out due to neck stiffness, and with questions lingering over KL Rahul’s form, team selection will be critical in Pune. The bowlers, however, will need to step up. While Jasprit Bumrah was his usual lethal self, Mohammed Siraj’s dip in form is a concern, and Ravichandran Ashwin’s uncharacteristic ineffectiveness on home soil was a surprise. Rohit admitted he misread the pitch, and not playing an extra seamer proved costly. India might consider bringing in Axar Patel for added depth, while Akash Deep could bolster the pace attack. The pressure is on both teams. Will the Kiwis seal a historic series win, or will the Men in Blue bounce back to level the series and take it to a decider? We’re in for a thrilling showdown.