**IND Vs NZ 2nd Test Day 1: Rohit Out, Highlights**

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Post on Oct 24, 2024

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IND vs NZ 2nd Test Day 1: Rohit Out, Highlights

The second Test match between India and New Zealand in the two-match series began at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Friday, February 3rd, 2023. India, aiming for a clean sweep, started the day aggressively but lost their captain Rohit Sharma early on, setting the tone for a day of fluctuating fortunes.

Early Wickets and a Solid Start for New Zealand

The day began with India winning the toss and electing to bat first. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, both in good form, looked to build a solid partnership but the early dismissal of Rohit for just 9 runs in the 3rd over shocked the Indian camp. Rohit, who scored a brilliant century in the first Test, was undone by a well-pitched delivery from Tim Southee that moved slightly inwards and trapped him LBW.

Despite the early setback, Gill looked in good touch and played confidently alongside Cheteshwar Pujara. The pair added 50 runs before Pujara was dismissed for 11 runs, caught behind by Tom Blundell off the bowling of Michael Bracewell.

A Resurgent Virat Kohli

The dismissal of Pujara brought in Virat Kohli, who had missed the first Test due to a back injury. Kohli, known for his fighting spirit, immediately injected energy into the Indian innings. He looked in excellent form, playing with aggression and authority. He shared a crucial partnership with Gill, helping India reach lunch at 100/2.

Gill Dominates the Afternoon Session

After lunch, Gill continued his dominance, reaching his half-century in style. He showcased his elegant strokeplay, effortlessly hitting boundaries and rotating the strike. Gill, however, fell short of a century, dismissed for 82 runs by Bracewell.

A Late Stumble and an Intriguing Finish

The dismissal of Gill opened the floodgates for New Zealand, with India losing wickets at regular intervals. Shreyas Iyer and Ajinkya Rahane failed to capitalize on their starts, while Rishabh Pant was dismissed for a duck, adding to India's woes.

At stumps, India were 221/6, with Kohli remaining unbeaten on 61 runs. Despite a good start, India lost momentum towards the end of the day, and New Zealand will be aiming to make early inroads on day 2.

Key Highlights of Day 1:

• Rohit Sharma's early dismissal: A major blow for India, as the captain failed to replicate his first Test heroics.
• Virat Kohli's impressive return: Kohli showed his class and experience, playing a crucial role in the Indian innings.
• Shubman Gill's half-century: Gill played a dominant innings, showcasing his talent and potential.
• A late collapse: The loss of wickets towards the end of the day gave New Zealand a crucial advantage going into day 2.

Day 2 promises to be another exciting one, with India needing to bat strongly and build a substantial lead. New Zealand will be looking to capitalize on the late momentum shift and take control of the match. Stay tuned for more updates on the second Test between India and New Zealand.