Oct 24, V7N- On the first day of the second Test against India in Pune, New Zealand faced a challenging spell against spin but managed to reach 92-2 by lunch. Opening batsman Devon Conway was nearing a half-century, having scored 47 runs, while Rachin Ravindra remained unbeaten on five.
 
New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat, initially making a solid start as Tom Latham and Conway safely navigated the fast bowlers. However, India responded by introducing spin early in the innings. Ravichandran Ashwin made an immediate impact, trapping new captain Latham lbw for 15 with a delivery that drifted and turned sharply. Washington Sundar also posed challenges for the New Zealand batsmen with the assistance of the black-soil pitch.
 
The Black Caps looked to rotate the strike and capitalize on any loose deliveries. Ashwin struck again, dismissing Will Young for 18 as he edged an attempted tickle down the leg side to the keeper.
 
Despite their current position, New Zealand's early resilience is crucial, especially given India's strong home record, having won their last 18 series on home soil since 2012. However, India will be keen to bounce back after their eight-wicket defeat in the series opener in Bengaluru. The series will conclude with the final match in Mumbai early next month.
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