New Zealand ended India's seven-match unbeaten streak when they sinked Virat Kohl & Co by ten wickets at the Basin Reserve in Wellington to go 1-0 up in the two-match series. India didn't dominate a single session in the entire Test match which took everyone by surprise. Meanwhile, as they prepare to regroup for the second match, former Kiwi cricketer Scott Styris has suggested one change in the playing XI.
The host, led by their fast bowler did exceedingly well to restrict the star-studded Indian batting unit. Tim Southee was the star of the show claiming nine wickets with good support from debutant Kyle Jamieson and Trent Boult. While Jamieson accounted for four wickets in the first innings, it was Boult in the second essay, who scalped a four-wicket haul.
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India's batting has been horrible with Mayank Agarwal only showing some application in the middle. Prithvi Shaw, skipper Virat Kohli, and Cheteshwar Pujara have failed terribly to step up to their potential to deliver the goods for their side as India managed 165 in the first innings followed by 191 in the second essay. The bowlers also were not up to the mark but Kohli backed his teammates to come back stronger.
Styris suggests a change
Meanwhile, as they gear up for the second and final Test, Scott Styris has suggested to include Shubhman Gill in the playing XI. The youngster has been in stellar form in recent times and has struck big knocks during India A tour of New Zealand earlier this year. Gill has been warming the benches for long and really deserves an opportunity to have a go in the top-order.
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I am currently, as I have been for a year or two, flying flag for Shubman Gill. I think he is a special talent who India are leaving out unnecessarily. I think he could be the mainstay along with Kohli for the next 10 years for this batting line-up for India. I am not sure if he feels the same way, I would get him into the side," Styris said during a post-match show.
Meanwhile, the second Test begins in Christchurch from February 28.
