The Indian cricket team is fighting to save the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. After conceding a huge 100-plus lead, the Rohit Sharma-led side has not been able to dent the New Zealand batting strongly in the second innings.
After Washington Sundar's seven-wicket haul helped India restrict New Zealand at 259, the home team could manage only 156 in the first innings.
Mitchell Santner picked a seven-wicket haul for the visitors. India's batting, which had collapsed for just 46 in the first innings of the first Test against New Zealand, was criticised by former New Zealand player Ian Smith. "Well, this is worse that 46 all out if you ask me," Smith, a veteran of 63 Tests and 98 ODIs, said on air. "This is some poor batting and shot selection.
I can understand the first Test, but instead of playing themselves in, batting for time, India for some reason, are going after the bowling.