After the conclusion of Day 1 of the second Test match between India and New Zealand at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, star batsman Virat Kohli was seen practicing on the outfield. Both in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru and in the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, he struggled with the bat. After being dismissed for a duck in the first inning, the 35-year-old found his form again in the second, scoring 70.
Ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, his form is crucial, and his lack of significant scores has raised some concerns. In a recent statement,
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir backed the batter, saying that the team’s management supports Virat Kohli and believes he will win in Australia.
In the meantime, India lost Rohit Sharma in the third over after sweeping New Zealand for 259 in the first innings. Tim Southee dismissed him for a nine-ball duck as he briefly appeared to be in trouble. India ended the day at 16/1, 243 down.
Kohli emerged for a brief practice session at the end of the day. He was hitting without a helmet while attempting to timing the ball. On a few occasions, he was also observed leaving to make the deliveries.
Virat Kohli Started Practicing Right After The End Of 1st Day.🏏🤍#ViratKohli #INDvsNZ #INDvNZ @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/gCt8Yupq6Y
— virat_kohli_18_club (@KohliSensation) October 24, 2024
On Day 1, Washington Sundar is the star.
The first day of the second test was Washington Sundar’s. Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway appeared to be in charge as India got off to a slow start, but Sundar destroyed the opposition in his second stint and finally took seven wickets.
Also Read: India vs New Zealand 2nd Test: Day 1 Stats Review Washington Sundar records best bowling stats in Tests in Pune
New Zealand lost seven wickets in 62 runs thanks to his genius, which gave India a strong chance to take the lead. With the surface predicted to worsen on Day 2, the hitters now have a significant assignment, but it won’t be simple.
India
