In a thrilling conclusion to the Pune Test, New Zealand clinched a remarkable 112-run victory over India, marking a pivotal moment in modern cricket. Mitchell Santner's spectacular bowling, with match figures of 13 wickets for 157 runs, not only propelled the Kiwis to victory but also ended India’s 18-series home winning streak—a record that had been in place since 2012. This article delves into the highs and lows of the match, from individual performances to tactical decisions, showcasing how New Zealand defied the odds to secure an unforgettable win.

The Stage is Set: Series Background

India entered this series as favorites, boasting a formidable home record and a squad known for its resilience on turning pitches. The last time India had suffered a series loss on their soil was against England in 2012. Conversely, New Zealand’s challenge was steep; historically, teams from outside the subcontinent have struggled in India’s spinning conditions.

However, from the outset, New Zealand’s determination to defy this history was clear. Led by Tom Latham, captaining the side for the first time, New Zealand demonstrated calm, calculated aggression. The Kiwis were well aware that their success hinged on their spinners’ performance, with Santner leading the attack.

Day 1: A Strong Start for New Zealand

New Zealand won the toss, giving them a crucial advantage on the dry, spin-friendly pitch at Pune. Devon Conway (76) and Rachin Ravindra (65) laid a solid foundation with their composed batting on a surface that was already starting to show signs of wear. Conway’s fluent knock and Ravindra’s adaptability allowed New Zealand to end the day with a respectable score of 259, despite losing seven wickets in quick succession toward the close.

For India, Washington Sundar’s comeback was nothing short of stellar. Taking seven wickets for just 59 runs, Sundar proved his skill on Indian soil and momentarily shifted momentum in India’s favor. But as Day 2 began, it was clear that New Zealand had laid down the gauntlet, and India needed a massive response to stay competitive.

Day 2: Santner’s Magic Unleashed

India’s response in the first innings was marred by hesitation and poor shot selection. Despite promising starts by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, India’s batting lineup crumbled under the pressure of Santner’s masterful spin bowling. The New Zealand spinner’s tall release and clever variation in pace kept the Indian batsmen guessing and struggling to make confident decisions.

Santner’s bowling figures of 7 for 53 in India’s first innings were his best in Test cricket, surpassing all expectations. India found themselves bowled out for 156, trailing New Zealand by 103 runs—a significant lead on a pitch that only grew trickier with each session. Santner’s performance was the decisive moment, marking a turning point for New Zealand’s hopes in the series.

Day 3: India Struggles in the Chase

New Zealand’s second innings, though less prolific, added crucial runs. Led by Tom Latham’s 86, the Kiwis built their lead to 358, setting a daunting target for India. Sundar again showed resilience with a four-wicket haul, but the rest of the Indian attack struggled to maintain control against the confident Kiwi batting lineup.

With a target of 359, India’s task was clear but arduous. On a pitch where every delivery brought uncertainty, a miraculous performance was needed. The team’s hopes rested on the shoulders of experienced players like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, both of whom had previously led India out of crisis situations.

India’s Last Stand: Resistance but No Rescue

India’s chase started with a glimmer of hope as Yashasvi Jaiswal played a brilliant knock, scoring 77 in a show of intent and aggression. However, his dismissal and the subsequent run-out of Rishabh Pant for a duck dampened any optimism for a comeback. Santner returned to haunt the Indian batsmen yet again, dismissing Jadeja, who had put up a lone fight with his valiant 42. In the end, the Indian innings folded at 245, falling 112 runs short.

This was not just a victory but a clinical display by New Zealand, executing their game plan with precision on a tough foreign pitch. The Kiwis’ ability to handle the turning conditions with discipline and resilience set them apart from the hosts. Santner’s control and adaptability became the fulcrum on which the match turned, securing New Zealand’s place in the annals of cricket history.

Santner’s Dominance: The Perfect Storm of Skill and Strategy

Santner’s performance is a case study in perfect spin bowling on subcontinental pitches. His adaptability on Indian soil contrasted with the cautious and often defensive approach that Indian batsmen displayed. Using a high-arm action and variations in flight, Santner induced misjudgments, capitalizing on India’s defensive tactics. Santner’s career-best match haul also showcased his development as a bowler, particularly his ability to exploit conditions that seemed otherwise insurmountable for most visiting spinners.

Record-Breaking Moments and Historic Significance

For New Zealand, this victory will be remembered as a historic triumph, securing their first series win in India in over a decade. Santner’s 13-wicket haul, including two five-wicket performances in the same match, highlighted a monumental achievement in Test cricket. Latham’s captaincy debut on Indian soil was the cherry on top, proving New Zealand’s depth and determination as a team.

The win holds immense significance not just for New Zealand but for Test cricket as a whole. In an era where dominance on home soil is increasingly common, New Zealand’s triumph showcased the value of technique, patience, and tactical adaptability, illustrating how a well-prepared side can succeed even in the most challenging conditions.

Key Takeaways and the Road Ahead for India and New Zealand

India’s first home series loss since 2012 raises questions about their approach to spin-heavy matches. While India has long been known for its prowess on turning tracks, this loss exposes some vulnerabilities. The over-reliance on Ashwin and Jadeja, combined with a lack of substantial batting contributions in high-stakes moments, suggests areas for improvement. This defeat could spark changes in strategy, particularly in spin handling, which has been India’s traditional strength on home turf.

For New Zealand, the series win not only boosts their confidence but solidifies their reputation as a formidable team in Test cricket. They will return home with an edge, knowing they have achieved something historic, driven by a balanced and disciplined approach to both batting and bowling. Santner’s success could inspire a renewed focus on developing spinners capable of excelling in varied conditions.

Conclusion: A Victory for the Ages

New Zealand’s 112-run victory in the second Test at Pune is more than a win—it is a testament to the team’s grit and a model for success in Test cricket. The series witnessed stellar performances, strategic brilliance, and a rare display of endurance by a visiting side in Indian conditions. With Santner’s spin wizardry leading the charge, New Zealand dismantled one of the strongest teams on home soil, marking a new chapter in Test cricket and creating memories that will be celebrated for years to come.

The Pune Test will remain a landmark moment, not only for New Zealand’s record books but also as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that makes cricket one of the world’s most cherished sports.