After a promising start in the Pune Test against New Zealand, Team India's chances of making the World Test Championship (WTC) final might take further dent going by the precarious position they are in in the ongoing match. Following a loss in the first Test in Bengaluru, the hosts had gained control in Pune by bowling out the visitors for 259 on day one. However, a batting collapse on day two has put India in a perilious position. Mitchell Santner ripped through the India's batting line-up with his sizzling seven-fer and bowled them out for a paltry 156
India's WTC Final hopes in jeopardy
Fans are growing increasingly concerned about India's ability to reach the WTC final for the third consecutive time. Despite currently leading the WTC points table, a loss in Pune could drastically alter the standings. If India falters, South Africa's chances of securing a place in the final would significantly improve. With upcoming series against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, South Africa's strong team is capable of overcoming these challenges and making a strong push for the WTC title.
What India need to do to make it to WTC final if they lose to NZ in Pune Test?
If India need to seal WTC 2023-2025 final spot, they will have to ensure they don't lose a single Test. They will have to eke out two draw as well to secure the coveted spot.
India faces a tough challenge in Australia
After the series against New Zealand, Team India is set to embark on a grueling five-Test series against Australia on Australian soil. This series is widely anticipated to be a formidable challenge for the Indian team, given the challenging conditions and the strength of the Australian opposition.
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New Zealand dominate India with Santner's 7-fer
Mitchell Santner's career-best performance of 7 wickets for 53 runs helped New Zealand establish a commanding lead of 103 runs over India in the second Test at Pune. The Kiwi left-arm spinner's five-wicket haul, coupled with contributions from Glenn Phillips, dismantled the Indian batting order and bowled them out for a paltry 156 on a spin-friendly Pune pitch.
India's collapse was particularly dramatic, losing their last nine wickets after a solitary wicket fell on the opening day. Ravindra Jadeja provided some resistance with 38 runs, while Shubman Gill and Yashaswi Jaiswal contributed 30 runs each. However, Indian captain Rohit Sharma (0) and Virat Kohli (1) failed to make a big impact.
Meanwhile, New Zealand finished Day 2 with a solid 301 lead over India with Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips intact on the crease.
