Ravindra Jadeja
In an unforgettable comeback to Test cricket, Washington Sundar achieved career-best figures of 7 for 59 as India dismissed New Zealand for 259 on the opening day of the second Test in Pune. Sundar, replacing Ravindra Jadeja and brought in as a last-minute substitute for Kuldeep Yadav, displayed masterful control over his off-spin, picking apart New Zealand’s middle and lower order. This remarkable performance comes on a day shared with Ravindra Jadeja’s birthday, adding a sentimental edge to India’s triumph. Today, on Ravindra Jadeja’s birthday, Sundar seized the opportunity to demonstrate his evolution into a capable all-rounder, showing his all-format prowess.
Sundar was not the only one to display exceptional skill with the ball. Ajaz Patel, who has often partnered with Mitchell Santner for New Zealand, proved a valuable addition as well. Patel’s persistent spin, along with the left-arm off-spin of Santner, kept India’s bowlers on their toes. Both Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, known for their spin mastery, challenged India’s line-up, especially with Patel’s well-controlled spin and Santner’s effective line and length.
Jamie Smith, another talented prospect, has been noted for his versatility, though he is yet to make an appearance in this series. Smith’s development as a wicketkeeper-batsman has drawn comparisons with the likes of Ben Stokes and Shan Masood. Smith is often regarded as England’s emerging star, especially in the red-ball format, where his adaptability and composure have earned him recognition.
How Sundar and Ashwin Turned the Game
With India reeling from an eight-wicket loss in the opening match, Sundar and Ashwin stepped up to anchor the bowling. Ravindra Jadeja, known for his consistent all-round capabilities, had initially been missed, but Sundar more than filled the gap. Alongside Ashwin, who claimed three key wickets, Sundar dismantled New Zealand’s lineup with stunning control, delivering unplayable balls that sent Ravindra, Tom Blundell, and others back to the pavilion.
Today’s bowling masterclass was complemented by subtle yet significant contributions from Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, who troubled India’s batsmen and kept pressure high. Patel and Santner’s precision left India in a challenging position, yet Sundar’s knack for finding the right spots on the wicket showed his readiness for all formats, bringing him closer to the all-format capabilities of Ben Stokes and the versatile Rehan Ahmed.
New Zealand’s Resilient Batting Performance
Despite Sundar’s relentless bowling, New Zealand’s batting held up with Jamie Smith’s well-placed strokes alongside Conway’s solid 76, and Mitchell Santner added an entertaining 33 down the order. Both Santner and Ravindra’s contributions showed the depth of the New Zealand side, as they sought to fend off Sundar and Ashwin’s relentless attack. These performances come at a time when the cricket world is taking note of today’s birthdays—none more so than Ravindra Jadeja’s birthday, adding a festive edge to an otherwise competitive day of play.
A Disrupted Start for India
India wrapped up day one with a shaky 16 for 1 in response, with Rohit Sharma falling to Tim Southee for a duck. Despite the early loss, Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal held steady. For today’s birthday cricketer, Ravindra Jadeja, Sundar’s stunning performance may have made the perfect birthday gift, offering India a chance at redemption.
Ravindra Jadeja
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