Counterattacking Partnership Propels India on Day 2 of Final Test Against New Zealand
A 96-run partnership between Shubman Gill (70*) and Rishabh Pant (60) injected momentum into India’s innings on the second morning of the final Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. Although Pant was dismissed around 25 minutes before lunch, India dominated the session, reducing the deficit to 40 runs against New Zealand’s first-innings total. Ish Sodhi, playing his comeback match, claimed the only wicket of the morning, but New Zealand will lament the missed opportunities earlier in the session, reports Live Cricket Score.
India’s Aggressive Start Sets the Tone
Rishabh Pant set the tone in the first over by dispatching Ajaz Patel for three boundaries, signalling India’s aggressive intent. Shubman Gill mirrored this attacking mindset, targeting the spinners and confidently playing. This high-risk approach came with close calls; Pant and Gill were granted reprieves due to fielding errors. Gill’s attempt to loft Glenn Phillips in his first over resulted in a miscue to deep mid-wicket, but substitute fielder Mark Chapman dropped a straightforward catch. Phillips was also involved when Pant, stepping out to loft, sent the ball towards long-off, only for Matt Henry to spill the chance.
Fluent Scoring Amid Missed Chances
Pant and Gill capitalized on their fortunes despite these near-dismissals, maintaining an aggressive scoring rate. India accumulated 77 runs in 14 overs during the first hour, with boundaries flowing freely. New Zealand’s bowlers tightened their line and length in the second hour, which slowed India’s run rate. Pant, who had expertly used his footwork and crease depth throughout his innings, was ultimately trapped by a sharp leg break from Sodhi. The LBW decision stood after a review, as it fell under the umpire’s call.
Pant’s Exit Offers New Zealand Temporary Relief
Pant’s wicket provided New Zealand a brief respite in an otherwise challenging session. The pitch, offering significant turns and unpredictable bounce typical of the Wankhede Stadium, posed problems for both sides. This variability in bounce makes any first-innings lead especially valuable.
Day 2 Summary
Brief scores: New Zealand 235 (Daryl Mitchell 82, Will Young 71; Ravindra Jadeja 5-65, Washington Sundar 4-81) lead India 195/5 (Shubman Gill 70*, Rishabh Pant 60; Ajaz Patel 2-76) by 40 runs.
India’s strong batting display, spearheaded by the counterattacking stand of Gill and Pant, has set the stage for an intriguing continuation of the Test as both teams vie for control on a spinner-friendly surface.
