Pune: In a thrilling turn of events, Washington Sundar’s double blow before tea brought India roaring back into contention, as New Zealand reached 201/5 on Day 1 of the Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium on Thursday.
Sundar, whose selection raised eyebrows, silenced doubters with a performance that could well define the day.
Coming into the attack at a critical juncture, Sundar first dismantled the resilient Rachin Ravindra, who had anchored New Zealand’s innings with a well-earned 65. Ravindra, showing class and composure, fell victim to a superbly flighted delivery that turned sharply, crashing into the stumps. The 24-year-old all-rounder, who was just beginning to look settled, watched in dismay as Sundar’s spin cut through his defence.
But Sundar wasn't finished. With only a few overs left before tea, he delivered a body blow to New Zealand’s momentum, removing wicketkeeper Tom Blundell for a mere 3 runs. This time, it was a tantalising delivery with flight and dip, luring Blundell into a tentative shot. The ball drifted just enough to evade the bat, leaving Blundell stranded and the Indian fielders jubilant.
Earlier, New Zealand had looked strong, cruising along with Devon Conway anchoring the innings. Conway, in sublime touch, crafted a fine 76 before a deft piece of bowling from Ravichandran Ashwin saw him edge behind to Rishabh Pant. His dismissal at 138/3 gave India the breakthrough they desperately needed.
Ashwin, ever the master of his craft, has been a constant thorn in New Zealand's side, claiming three crucial wickets. His second came in the form of Will Young (24), whose departure just before lunch left New Zealand shaken at 76/2, a far cry from their confident start. Tom Latham, too, fell to Ashwin’s guile early on for 15, leaving Conway to carry the early burden.
At tea, the visitors find themselves on the back foot, as Daryl Mitchell remains unbeaten on a cautious 16 from 49 balls. With Sundar’s figures reading a sparkling 15-3-34-2, he has been India’s key weapon in the spin-friendly conditions. Ashwin’s 3/48 from his 19 overs makes him the standout performer so far, as the Indian spinners continue to probe New Zealand's batting.
The visitors now face a stiff challenge going into the final session. With India’s spinners growing more menacing on a track that is beginning to offer sharp turn, New Zealand’s lower order will have to dig deep to salvage their innings.
For India, Sundar’s inclusion has already paid dividends, and as the ball continues to grip the surface, the evening session promises more drama. Can New Zealand recover and push towards a respectable total, or will India’s spin wizards wrap up the day in commanding fashion?
Score at Tea: New Zealand 201/5 (62 overs); Daryl Mitchell *16 (49); Ravichandran Ashwin 3/48, Washington Sundar 2/34