The focus has now shifted to the second test match of the ongoing India vs New Zealand series (IND vs NZ), scheduled for October 24. The first match, held at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, saw New Zealand dominating for the most part, leaving Team India trailing 1-0 in the three-match series. The upcoming match, to be played at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, is a must-win for India if they hope to keep their series-winning chances alive.
Team India’s Potential Changes
There are speculations about multiple changes in India’s playing XI for the second test, especially with KL Rahul’s form coming under scrutiny. Rahul struggled in the Bengaluru Test, scoring 0 and 12 in his two innings. In contrast, Sarfaraz Khan impressed with a century, and an injured Rishabh Pant played a gritty 99-run inning in the second innings. A viral video showing KL Rahul touching the pitch at M Chinnaswamy has fueled rumors that this may have been his last test at that ground. If Shubman Gill, who missed the first test due to a stiff neck, is fit to play, Rahul could be dropped for the second test in Pune.
Bowling Concerns
Mohammed Siraj is another player whose performance is being questioned. While Jasprit Bumrah delivered with the new ball in Bengaluru, Siraj struggled to make an impact. With the Pune pitch expected to be spin-friendly, India might opt for an extra spinner. Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav are likely to be part of the playing XI. Additionally, Washington Sundar has joined the squad after the first test defeat and could be a valuable inclusion, offering both spin bowling and batting abilities. Sundar has already impressed with both bat and ball in the Ranji Trophy.
Probable Playing XI for India
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill/KL Rahul
- Virat Kohli
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Washington Sundar/Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
The second test is crucial for India as they need a win to stay in the series. With potential changes in the batting and bowling lineup, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma’s strategy to turn the tide in Pune.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.