We were certain that We’d hit big, but that didn’t happen: Morne Morkel

Morkel emphasised once more how the New Zealand hitters performed admirably, applying pressure to India. He clarified that the Kiwis’ skilful handling of the conditions and variety of strokes put India at a disadvantage.

On the first day of the second Test in Pune, New Zealand got off to a strong batting start, but Washington Sundar’s brilliant play held them to 259 runs. India’s batsmen once again faltered, as the hosts were bowled for 156 runs despite having a good chance to bat long and take the lead in the first innings. Rishabh Pant and Sarfaraz Khan, who were in form, could not contribute much, and senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli did not get going.

The batting order appeared unprepared for Mitchell Santner, who took seven wickets. With 38 runs to his credit, Ravindra Jadeja was India’s top run scorer. As they finished Day 2 with a 301-run advantage, the BlackCaps appeared to be in complete control of the match in the third inning. Because they are currently in danger of losing their first home Test series in twelve years, India’s chances of making a comeback appear slim.

They had the confidence to bat long, but it didn’t happen, India bowling coach Morne Morkel said after the day’s play was over. He praised Santner for being “spot on” with line and length and said the Tom Latham-led unit rotated effectively, which increased pressure on the Indian team.

“I believe their partnership bowling was excellent. The rotation of the strike proved difficult. It was crucial to maintain the scoreboard’s momentum. Today’s bowling pace from Santner was perfect. We were sure we would bat big coming in here 1-0, but it didn’t work out,” Morkel stated during the news conference.

New Zealand is dominating this game and handled the conditions well: Morne Morkel

“I have to acknowledge New Zealand. how they addressed the situation. This series has been excellent. They are also at the top of this game for that reason. They are doing good reverse sweeping. I don’t find their playing surprising. How we approach it tomorrow morning will be crucial for us. It was not a good day.

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Once more, we were unable to get NZ out. The bowling coach also stated that Ash and Bumrah both wanted to get the team back into the game.