India Grabs Edge on Day 2 of Mumbai Test: Gill, Pant, and Spinners Lead Charge

India asserted control over New Zealand at stumps on Day 2 of the Mumbai Test on November 2, with Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and India’s spinners driving a strong position for the hosts. At the close of play, New Zealand trailed with just a 143-run lead, standing at 171/9 in their second innings.

Gill and Pant Dominate Early
Starting the day at 86/4, India’s innings was powered by a 97-run partnership between Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. Gill’s composed 90 off 146 balls and Pant’s blistering 60 off 59 deliveries lifted India to a first-innings lead of 28 runs. Pant’s aggression set the tone, hitting Ajaz Patel for consecutive boundaries, while Gill anchored at the other end, steadying the innings.

Despite New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel’s best efforts, finishing with a five-wicket haul, India was able to post 263 runs. Patel’s sharp bowling left India struggling mid-session, but late contributions from Washington Sundar (38) kept the scoreboard ticking.

Spinners Shine, New Zealand Falters
With a slim lead in hand, India’s spinners quickly dismantled New Zealand’s top order in their second innings. Ravindra Jadeja (4/52) and Ravichandran Ashwin (3/38) kept New Zealand on the back foot. Ashwin’s clever deliveries and Jadeja’s consistency with the ball left New Zealand reeling at the end of the day.

New Zealand’s best effort came from Will Young, who held his ground to score a half-century, though his dismissal and lack of partnerships compounded the visitors’ troubles. A spirited effort by Glenn Phillips provided some resistance with quick boundaries, but it was not enough to sway the momentum.

Ajaz Patel’s Continued Wankhede Success
Ajaz Patel continued to impress at his “home away from home.” The left-arm spinner, who previously picked up a 10-wicket haul on this ground, added another five wickets to his tally on Saturday, showcasing his deep familiarity with Wankhede’s spin-friendly pitch.

What’s Next on Day 3
With India in command and New Zealand’s innings on the brink, the hosts will look to capitalize on their momentum and secure a substantial lead heading into the final stretch of the Test.

image credit: indianexpress.com

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