What To Expect From Day 1 Of IND vs NZ 2nd Test In Pune?

Jatin

India will look to bounce back whereas New Zealand will aim to build on the lead [Source: PTI]India will look to bounce back whereas New Zealand will aim to build on the lead [Source: PTI]

As India locks horns with New Zealand in the second Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, Day 1 could very well set the tone for the rest of the match. With both teams having distinct strategies and unique challenges, the opening day promises to be nothing short of a roller-coaster ride.

Let’s take a look at what to expect on Day 1 of the 2nd IND vs NZ Test in Pune:

A Fresh Start for India's Batting Unit

India's batting lineup has a point to prove after a dismal showing in the first Test, where they were skittled for a mere 46 runs in the first innings. As they step onto the Pune pitch, which is expected to be a rank turner, the batters will need to adapt quickly.

The opening day will be crucial for the likes of Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli to stamp their authority. Kohli’s history in Pune, where he scored a stunning 254* against South Africa, adds a glimmer of hope for a strong comeback.

With Gill likely to slot back in, KL Rahul's spot could be on the line, especially with Sarfaraz Khan making a strong case after his fighting 150 in the second innings in Bengaluru. The top-order batters will need to be wary of both the new ball and the sharp turn that might come into play sooner than expected.

Early Spin Challenge on a Dry Surface

The Pune pitch is expected to be a spinner's paradise, with signs of turn likely from the first session. The black-soil track will not offer much bounce, meaning spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and potentially Axar Patel, if picked, could be in business from the get-go.

India’s strategy will revolve around capitalizing on the turn, hoping for quick breakthroughs and an early stranglehold over the Kiwis. For the batters, it’s a test of patience and technique. They will need to use their feet well against spin, employ soft hands, and rely heavily on defense to survive Day 1’s spin examination.

New Zealand's Pacers in Focus

While the Pune pitch is expected to favour spin, Matt Henry and William O'Rourke will look to make early inroads with the new ball. Having dismantled India’s top order in the first Test, they’ll be raring to exploit any early moisture on the Pune pitch. Their swing and seam movement could test India’s openers and expose the middle order if they get quick breakthroughs.

On the other hand, Ajaz Patel and Glenn Phillips will be critical on a turning surface, as the Blackcaps aim to maintain their momentum. Ajaz, in particular, will relish the conditions, as the pitch could turn square from Day 1, making him a formidable challenge for India’s batters.


Toss: The All-Important Decider

The toss will be the proverbial ace up the sleeve for either team. With Pune traditionally favouring teams batting first, winning the toss could allow the captain to bat and post a formidable total. Batting first will be vital in dictating terms, especially with the pitch likely to deteriorate rapidly.

Indian Spinners Eye Early Dominance

Ashwin and Jadeja will look to make the most of the spin-friendly surface, aiming to bowl in tandem and suffocate the Kiwi batters. Both have the experience to exploit early turn, and their accuracy will be key to breaking New Zealand’s momentum. 

Axar Patel’s inclusion would add more bite to the attack, giving India an edge with four world-class spinners operating in tandem.

The Kiwis, meanwhile, will be aware of the Indian spinners’ potential to spin a web around them. Batting against the turning ball from the first session is not going to be easy.

The Middle Order Showdown

The middle order will play a critical role for both sides. For India, Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant will be the ones to watch. After his gritty 150 in Bengaluru, Sarfaraz is brimming with confidence, while Pant’s aggressive approach could help counter the spinners.

New Zealand’s middle order, led by Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and Phillips will be looking to build a solid foundation and put pressure back on India. If they can survive the early spin threat, the likes of Mitchell and Tom Blundell could capitalize and anchor New Zealand’s innings.

Fielding and Reverse Swing

As the pitch starts to dry under the scorching Pune sun, reverse swing could become a factor in the latter part of Day 1. Additionally, field placements will play a massive role, with close-in catchers coming into play early on to apply pressure and look for sharp chances.

Day 1 Could Set the Tempo for the Series

Day 1 of the second Test will be about who blinks first. India needs to put their best foot forward after the setback in Bengaluru, while New Zealand will look to seize the early initiative and build on their series lead.

With both teams expected to go full throttle, the first day could well set the narrative for the rest of the match. Whichever team seizes the momentum on Day 1 could be on their way to dictate the outcome of the Test.