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Mitchell Santner In, Tim Southee Out; New Zealand's Probable XI For 2nd Test Vs India

New Zealand won the 1st Test vs India [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]New Zealand won the 1st Test vs India [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X.com]

New Zealand are all set to take on India in the second Test match at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, starting on October 23, with confidence running high. After a historic win in the first Test, where they defeated India by eight wickets at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Kiwis are 1-0 up in the series. The victory was particularly sweet, as it marked the first time in 36 years that New Zealand managed to beat India in a Test on their home soil.

Led by Tom Latham, New Zealand took control of the first Test early on, taking advantage of India’s struggles. Chasing a modest target of 107, they completed the job on the final day with ease. Rachin Ravindra and Will Young ensured there were no surprises, wrapping up the match inside 28 overs despite a rain delay. The win has set the tone for the series, and New Zealand will be looking to continue their dominance in Pune.

However, heading into the second Test, there are a few possible changes to the squad. The big news is that Kane Williamson has been ruled out for the second Test, and New Zealand will likely stick to a similar lineup, although a few adjustments could be on the cards. 

Why New Zealand Would Go For Mitchell Santner?

One of the possible changes might be dropping Tim Southee in favour of left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, given that the Pune pitch favours spinners. The surface at the MCA Stadium is expected to be a black-soil track, with less bounce than the one in Bengaluru, making it more suitable for spinners. Despite this tweak, the team remains strong and confident. 

New Zealand Probable Playing XI Against India: 

Tom Latham (C), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (WK), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, William O'Rourke, Matt Henry