India face familiar challenge, but pressure mounts as they head into second Test against New Zealand

India have been in this position before: 1-0 down in a home Test series. It happened against Australia in 2017, and again against England in 2021 and 2024. On all three occasions, India managed to bounce back and win the series, but those series had the luxury of four matches. This time, with only two Tests remaining, the stakes are even higher as India try to claw back after losing the first Test in Bengaluru.

India’s dominance at home is well-known, but teams have increasingly found ways to win in India over the last two years. This points to a shift, perhaps signaling the eventual transition of veterans like R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. Despite this, India remain strong favorites as they prepare for the second Test in Pune.

The first Test in Bengaluru saw India fall victim to a perfect storm—unfavorable weather and a deceptive pitch that led them to misjudge the toss and team selection. Interestingly, New Zealand captain Tom Latham admitted that they too would have chosen to bowl first had they won the toss. This rarity of conditions suiting the visiting side over the hosts has happened just a handful of times in the last 20 years, most notably in Nagpur 2004 and Ahmedabad 2008.

Pune is expected to be a different story. India have taken steps to ensure home advantage, and the pitch is likely to offer less help to New Zealand’s fast bowlers, allowing India’s world-class spin attack to dominate. While this doesn’t guarantee a win, India will play this match on terms that suit them far more than the previous Test.

In the spotlight – Shubman Gill and Glenn Phillips

Shubman Gill, having solidified his place at No. 3 with an average of 43.23 in 11 matches, returns to the team after missing the first Test due to a stiff neck. His presence will bring stability to India’s batting lineup.

For New Zealand, Glenn Phillips has quietly made a name for himself since rejoining the Test side in December 2023, taking 23 wickets in nine matches at an impressive average of 26.47. Phillips, once considered a part-time spinner, is now a key figure in New Zealand’s attack. He could play a crucial role in Pune, especially if the pitch favors spin.

As India and New Zealand gear up for the second Test, the pressure is on India to make a comeback. The Pune pitch, expected to favor India’s spinners, could be their best hope of turning the series around.