The cricketing world turned its attention to the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai for the much-anticipated 3rd Test match between India and New Zealand. Following a gripping first day, Day 2 promised more exciting action, with both teams vying for supremacy in this pivotal match. After the end of Day 1, New Zealand led by 35 runs, having scored 235 in their first innings, while India aimed to capitalize on their home advantage.

India's Batting Resurgence

Day 2 commenced with India resuming their innings at 12 for 2, trailing New Zealand by 223 runs. Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill took to the crease, and their partnership quickly shifted the momentum in favor of India. Pant displayed an aggressive approach right from the start, hitting Ajaz Patel for three boundaries in the opening overs. His explosive style saw him race to a half-century off just 36 balls, marking one of the fastest fifties in India-New Zealand Test history​.

While Pant was busy accumulating runs, Gill played the role of the anchor. His composure at the crease was essential, as he focused on rotating the strike and building a solid partnership with Pant. Together, they forged a 97-run stand that set a firm foundation for India, pushing their total past New Zealand's first innings score​.

Turning Point in the Innings

Despite their promising start, India's batting lineup experienced a mini-collapse after lunch. Ajaz Patel struck first, dismissing Ravindra Jadeja, and soon after, he claimed Sarfaraz Khan’s wicket, who fell for a duck​. Gill, who looked set for a century, fell victim to Patel's spin, departing for 90 runs. His innings was a testament to his growing maturity as a batsman, showcasing both aggression and caution in equal measure​. Washington Sundar's late contributions, including a brisk 38 off 36 balls, helped India post a total of 263, giving them a slender first-innings lead of 28 runs.The standout performance, however, was undoubtedly Rishabh Pant, who not only ignited the innings with his batting but also set a brisk pace that put New Zealand on the back foot​.

New Zealand’s Response

Entering their second innings, New Zealand aimed to build a significant lead. However, they faced immediate trouble as Indian pacer Akash Deep struck early, dismissing Tom Latham for a golden duck. Devon Conway and Will Young stabilized the innings momentarily, but the pressure mounted as wickets began to tumble​.

Ravindra Jadeja, who was instrumental in the first innings, continued his fine form, taking crucial wickets and turning the tide in India's favor. His dismissal of Daryl Mitchell was particularly significant, halting New Zealand's recovery​. The New Zealand batting lineup struggled to find footing against India's spin attack, with Jadeja and Ashwin exploiting the conditions expertly.

The Battle of Spinners

As the day progressed, Jadeja's bowling proved vital. He claimed four wickets, while Ashwin chipped in with crucial scalps as well​. The pair's ability to take wickets at regular intervals kept the New Zealand batsmen under constant pressure, leading to a dramatic lower-order collapse.

Despite some late resistance from Glenn Phillips, who managed to score 26 runs off just 13 balls, New Zealand's batting lineup faltered, and they ended the day at 171 for 9, leading by 143 runs. The day concluded with India looking to capitalize on their advantage going into Day 3​.

Key Performers of Day 2

  1. Rishabh Pant: His explosive 50 off 36 balls set the tone for India's innings.
  2. Shubman Gill: A composed 90 that anchored the innings and showcased his maturity.
  3. Ravindra Jadeja: With four wickets, he played a critical role in dismantling New Zealand's batting order.

Conclusion

Day 2 of the 3rd Test was a rollercoaster of emotions for fans and players alike. With aggressive batting from India and a fierce bowling performance, the match is poised for an exciting conclusion. As the series stands, New Zealand has already claimed victory in the series, but this match holds significant importance for both teams, especially in the context of the ICC World Test Championship points.

The final day promises to deliver thrilling cricket as India aims to chase down the target set by New Zealand and seal the match in their favor. Cricket fans can look forward to more drama and exceptional performances as the players take to the field once again.