New Zealand took a significant step toward a historic series win in India, thanks to a remarkable bowling display by Mitchell Santner and a steady innings from Tom Latham. At stumps on Day 2 of the second Test in Pune, New Zealand led India by 301 runs, leaving them in control of the match. Santner was the star of the day, claiming a career-best 7/53 to bowl India out for just 156 in their first innings, granting New Zealand a crucial 103-run lead.

Santner’s impactful performance was his first five-wicket haul in 29 Tests. His dismissals included key players, like Virat Kohli, who misjudged a full toss and was bowled for just 1. Reflecting on Kohli's unexpected dismissal, Santner said, “It was more of a shock to get Kohli out like that. The change of pace was key today.”

Watch The Wicket Of Virat Kohli 

Santner also shared his strategic approach to bowling on the Pune pitch, inspired by India’s Washington Sundar, who took seven wickets on Day 1. “I just tried to play with angles. Watched Washy [Washington Sundar] and that looked cool, so I thought I’d do that,” Santner commented. His adaptability and control, keeping the ball around 90 km/h, proved instrumental in his success. “Tried to find the right speed. It changed as the game went on, but it was good.”

The left-arm spinner also acknowledged the spin-friendly conditions in Pune. “The pitches spin, which is nice. We don’t get that back home,” Santner noted, appreciating the assistance for spinners on Indian soil.

New Zealand’s batters, led by Tom Latham (86) and Tom Blundell (30*), managed to extend their lead to 301 runs by the end of Day 2, putting India on the back foot. Speaking on the team’s position, Santner expressed optimism, saying, “To put ourselves in a position to potentially win a Test is cool. The batters did well; building partnerships was key.”