In a disappointing turn of events, India faced a decisive loss against New Zealand in the Pune Test, handing the Kiwis a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. This was India’s first home Test series loss in over a decade, breaking a streak that lasted since 2012. Here are five main factors that contributed to India’s defeat, leaving fans and analysts with much to discuss.
1. Lackluster Batting Performance, Key Players Fall Short
India’s batting lineup failed to deliver in both innings, with established players struggling to build substantial scores. The team managed only 156 runs in the first innings and couldn’t recover in the second. As senior players and experienced batsmen, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were looked to for stability. Unfortunately, Rohit was dismissed without scoring in the first innings and managed only 8 runs in the second, while Virat’s contributions were just 1 run and 17 runs across the two innings. Without a solid foundation from the top order, India was unable to keep up with the required run rate or set a competitive target.
2. Spin Strategy Backfires on a Spin-Friendly Pitch
India’s game plan was to capitalize on the spinning conditions of the Pune pitch. With its reputation for being spin-friendly, the pitch was expected to benefit Indian spinners, but New Zealand’s batsmen handled spin effectively, neutralizing this strategy. Kiwi spinner Mitchell Santner, in particular, capitalized on the conditions better than his Indian counterparts. His control over spin had India’s batsmen struggling, turning the intended home advantage in New Zealand’s favor.
3. Ineffective Pace Attack
India’s pace attack, which included Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, was unable to provide breakthroughs, with both bowlers finishing the match without a wicket. The lack of support from fast bowlers meant that India’s bowling unit couldn’t put consistent pressure on New Zealand’s lineup. While Indian spinners held their ground, the absence of a pace threat allowed New Zealand’s batsmen to build partnerships and establish a strong lead.
4. Critical Run-Out of Rishabh Pant
The target of 359 runs was daunting but within reach, given India’s capable lineup. However, a major setback occurred when Rishabh Pant, known for his aggressive play, was run out due to a miscommunication with Virat Kohli. Attempting a quick run, Pant was dismissed after facing only three balls. This loss was a huge blow, as Pant’s presence in the middle order could have provided the boost needed to chase the challenging target.
5. Strategic Decisions Under Scrutiny
India’s strategy and captaincy decisions raised questions, with captain Rohit Sharma’s decision to field first drawing particular criticism. Given the deteriorating nature of the Pune pitch, batting first might have given India an early advantage. Opting to bowl first allowed New Zealand to capitalize on the early pitch conditions, and as the game progressed, batting became increasingly challenging. The overall approach of India’s leadership, led by Rohit Sharma and supported by coach Gautam Gambhir, faced scrutiny as key tactical choices didn’t play out as hoped.
