Ashwin Shines as New Zealand Navigates Indian Spin Attack on Day One of Second Test
Pune: On a day that promised intrigue, Ravichandran Ashwin showcased his spin prowess, claiming two wickets in the first session of the second Test against New Zealand. However, the visiting team managed to counter the Indian spinners effectively, reaching 92/2 at lunch on Thursday on a slow and spin-friendly pitch.
Devon Conway exhibited composure throughout the session, finishing not out on 47 from 108 balls, including five boundaries, while Rachin Ravindra stood by with five runs as the pair looked to build a solid foundation.
From the outset, it was clear that spinners would play a crucial role in the match. Ashwin, in particular, made his presence felt early, claiming the first breakthrough on just his fifth delivery. He dismissed New Zealand captain Tom Latham for the ninth time in Tests, with a delivery that drifted and turned, beating the outside edge before striking Latham’s pads, leading to an immediate lbw decision.
The partnership between Will Young and Conway was pivotal, as they adopted a cautious approach to add 44 runs for the second wicket. Conway employed the reverse sweep effectively, while Young appeared fluent until he edged a delivery down the leg side, handing Ashwin his second wicket of the session. The ball brushed Young’s gloves before settling into Rishabh Pant’s gloves, and after a brief discussion, the Indian team opted for a successful review.
Shortly after, a confident leg-before appeal from Ravindra Jadeja against Conway was turned down by the on-field umpire. India reviewed the decision but lost the appeal, showcasing the tight contest between bat and ball.
Ashwin, who bowled the majority of the 31 overs in the morning session, came close to claiming Conway’s wicket again just before lunch when he found the outside edge, but the ball eluded the Indian captain at first slip.
While Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep opened the bowling, the pitch initially posed challenges for the pace duo. Despite generating some sideways movement, they struggled to make significant inroads against the Kiwi openers.
As the first session concluded, the stage was set for an exciting day ahead, with New Zealand looking to build on their solid start while India aimed to capitalize on the spin-friendly conditions.
