The second match of the three-Test series between India and New Zealand is set to take place on Thursday, 24 October 2024. This match holds great importance for India as they aim to bounce back. After a disappointing performance in the first match, Team India, led by Rohit Sharma, will be looking to even the series with a win in this crucial game.
Historically, India has a strong record against New Zealand in Test matches. Since 1955, the two teams have faced off in 63 Tests, with India winning 22 matches and New Zealand 14. The highest total ever recorded between the two teams is 583 runs, while the lowest is just 46.
India has an impressive 74% win rate in second Tests against New Zealand, while the Kiwis have only managed to win 15% of such games. There is also an 11% chance of the match ending in a draw.
With a fresh strategy and possible team changes, India is eager to get back on the winning track. If India loses the Pune Test, they would need to win four out of the remaining six Tests to secure their spot in the World Test Championship final without depending on other teams’ results. Since five of those games will be played in Australia, it would be better for India to take advantage of their home conditions and win as many matches as possible before heading there.
IND vs NZ 2nd Test Schedule
When : Thursday, 24 October 2024 at 09:30 AM IST
Venue : Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune
IND vs NZ 2nd Test: Weather Report
In the days leading up to the Pune Test, there has been off-and-on rain along with hot afternoons. The pitch appears dry, and two days before the match, some grass was being removed from it. This suggests that spin bowlers could have a bigger impact in this game compared to the first Test.
IND vs NZ 2nd Test: Team News
India: The Indian team faces tough selection choices after Sarfaraz Khan’s 150 in the first Test. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are fit and set to return, which could put KL Rahul’s spot in doubt. Washington Sundar might play to tackle left-handers, possibly leaving Kuldeep Yadav out. Mohammed Siraj’s average performance may also lead to him being replaced by Akash Deep.
New Zealand: New Zealand, like India, may also face some selection dilemmas. One issue was resolved with Kane Williamson being ruled out, which allows Will Young to keep his spot. However, with the dry conditions in Pune, they might consider adding an extra spinner, despite their three pacers playing key roles in the win in Bengaluru. The main challenge will be deciding who makes way if they opt for an additional spinner in the team.
Probable Playing 11
India: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj/Akash Deep
New Zealand: Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel
Dream 11 prediction
Batsmans: Virat Kohli, Sarfaraj Khan, Yashaswi Jaiswal, Will Young
All Rounders: Rachin Ravindra, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja
Wicket Keeper: Rishabh Pant
Bowlers: Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Japreet Bumrah
Team 1
Team 2
Also Read: Sarfaraz Khan or KL Rahul to Make Way for Shubhman Gill?
