A day which could have been a lot better for New Zealand was cut short by heavy afternoon showers. The rains forced the umpires to call stumps much before time on day 2 of India vs New Zealand first Test.

India added 27 runs to their overnight score of 291 before getting bowled out for 318. Soon after New Zealand started their first innings and it was Tom Latham and skipper Kane Williamson’s gutsy show that became the highlight of the day. They showed application, patience and determination as they went about their business of chasing India’s first innings total.

Latham-Williamson Put Up A Solid Partnership 

It was a mixed blend of attack and defense from the two Kiwi batsmen who actually scored freely against the Indian bowlers. Latham in particular was very keen on playing the sweep to negate any turn from the Indian spinners.

Kohli brought the spinners very early. He brought them on from ninth over onward. He brought Jadeja from one end and switched the pacers from the other end. The first Kiwi wicket was infact taken by Umesh Yadav as he trapped Martin Guptill leg before wicket.

Since then, Latham and Williamson added 117 runs for the third wicket which was their sixth century stand in 24 innings together. Steadily they were moving very well together as NZ reached 152 for 1 before the heavens opened at Green park. Further play was not possible on day 2 due to rain. 

It was important from NZ’s perspective to not lose any more wicket by the end of the day and that’s exactly what the duo did. They formed a partnership, assessed the conditions and played as per the situation demanded. 

There was not much wrong that the Indian bowlers did on their part but it was only brilliant batting from the duo that helped them take some upper hand in the contest. Ashwin in particular was dealt on very well by the Latham-Williamson pair. Not only did they not give him wickets, they also played positively against him. They also  picked him off for runs.

Rain at last halted the progress of the Kiwi run scoring and it means that they will look to start from scratch tomorrow morning. Another important day awaits as this test match gets interesting.

Picture Courtesy: FinancialExpress