India suffers first home Test series loss since 2012 as New Zealand win 2nd Test by 113 runs

New Zealand achieved a decisive victory over India by 113 runs in the second Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, clinching the three-match series 2-0. This defeat marks India's first Test series loss at home since 2012, highlighting a significant shift in the dynamics of international cricket.

Chasing a daunting target of 359 runs, India faced immediate setbacks as captain Rohit Sharma was dismissed for a mere 8 runs, leaving the team in early trouble. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill formed a crucial partnership, aiming to stabilize the innings and rebuild the team's confidence. However, Mitchell Santner’s exceptional spell proved pivotal. He took 7 wickets in the first innings and followed up with 6 in the second, consistently disrupting India’s batting order and leaving the team struggling at critical moments.

In India's second innings, Jaiswal showcased his talent with a resilient 77 runs, while Ravindra Jadeja provided some support with a score of 42. Unfortunately, the rest of the batting lineup faltered against New Zealand's disciplined bowling attack, leading to India being bundled out for 245 runs. This collapse meant that they fell short of the target and could not sustain the momentum built by Jaiswal and Jadeja.

Earlier in the match, New Zealand set a strong foundation with solid performances from their top-order batsmen. Tom Latham scored an impressive 80 runs, and Devon Conway contributed significantly with 76 runs, helping New Zealand post scores of 259 and 255 in their two innings. Ajaz Patel's effective bowling also contributed to India’s struggles, as he claimed two key wickets in the second innings.