India Faces Nepal Challenge in Cricket Series

The stage is set for the second Test match between India and New Zealand at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, starting October 24th. Following New Zealand's historic 8-wicket win in the first Test, the series hangs precariously in the balance, with India yearning to level the series before the final match.

India's campaign was dealt a blow by the first Test loss, which marked its first defeat on home soil in 36 years. New Zealand, on the other hand, recorded its third ever win in India, adding to its already considerable trophy cabinet. Washington Sundar's brilliant display with the ball has given India a hopeful outlook going into the second Test. In the previous match, he played a stellar role, taking 7 wickets for 59 runs, as India tottered to 259 runs. As the second Test commences, India stands around 243 runs behind New Zealand and hopes to arrest their decline by turning the tables.

R Ashwin's remarkable 560th Test wicket propelled him past Kapil Dev, further bolstering India's determination to revive their campaign. Washington Sundar's mastery of spin bowling has revitalized India's hopes, and the team must capitalize on this momentum with New Zealand resuming at 92 for 2, courtesy of Devon Conway's unbeaten 47. Following lunch on Day 1, the bowlers – including R Ashwin and Washington Sundar – managed to stump the visitors twice, but New Zealand will be counter-attacking, against the spin threat.

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