New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner delivered an outstanding performance in the second Test against India, claiming his career-best bowling figures. His efforts helped New Zealand restrict India to a mere 156 runs in their first innings at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune, establishing a crucial 103-run lead for the visitors.
Mitchell Santner dismantles India’s batting unit
In response to New Zealand’s first-innings total of 259, Santner’s spell dominated India’s batting lineup from the start. He began by dismissing Shubman Gill for 30, followed swiftly by the prized wicket of former Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who departed for just 1 run. Santner continued his excellent form by removing Sarfraz Khan for 11 and followed up with Ravichandran Ashwin just before the lunch break.
After lunch, the Indian lower order attempted to stabilize with a partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, which added 40 runs. However, Santner ended the stand with Jadeja’s dismissal for LBW. His final two wickets, Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah, capped off his brilliant spell, as he wrapped up the innings with figures of 7/53 from 19.3 overs. This was Santner’s first five-wicket haul in Test cricket, marking a significant milestone in his career.
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Santner’s remarkable spell has placed him among the top New Zealand bowlers in Tests against India.
Best bowling figures by New Zealand players against India in Tests:
- Simon Doull – 7/65, 1998, Wellington
- Tim Southee – 7/64, 2012, Bengaluru
- Mitchell Santner – 7/53, 2024, Pune
- Richard Hadlee – 7/23, 1976, Wellington
- Ajaz Patel – 10/119, 2021, Mumbai
Well, Santner’s achievement in Pune not only bolstered New Zealand’s position in the Test but also reinforced his reputation as a skilled spinner capable of thriving in challenging conditions.