Lotus365 : Santner’s 13-Wicket Haul Seals New Zealand’s Historic Win Over India

Mitchell Santner’s 13-wicket haul drives New Zealand to their first Test series win in India since 2012. Lotus365 Match Prediction insights.

Mitchell Santner’s exceptional 13-wicket haul, including 6-104 in the second innings, led New Zealand to a series-sealing 112-run victory over India in Pune, marking India's first home series loss since 2012. This win halted India’s unbeaten streak of 18 consecutive home series wins, showcasing a dominant spin attack on a Pune pitch primed for turn. India, with just 181 runs needed to stay in the game at Tea on Day 3, found themselves outmatched despite valiant efforts from Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.

After Santner dismissed Ashwin, India's chances diminished rapidly. Jadeja (42) put up a lone fight but, with limited support from the tail-enders, fell to Ajaz Patel as New Zealand clinched a memorable victory. Santner’s outstanding bowling, coupled with his tactical changes in pace and trajectory, troubled the Indian lineup on a tricky surface. His performance in the first innings had already created a daunting 103-run lead, setting up a near-impossible chase for India.

New Zealand's success was underpinned by the strong foundation laid by Devon Conway (76) and Rachin Ravindra (65) in the first innings. Although Washington Sundar’s return to the team saw him taking 7-59 in a spirited comeback, it was ultimately Santner’s lethal spin that took New Zealand to an unassailable position. With India on the back foot, New Zealand's batsmen showed aggressive intent, led by captain Tom Latham’s 86, to post a target of 359 on a challenging pitch.

As the chase began, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s explosive 77 provided hope, but Santner quickly ended any prospects of a comeback, continuing his devastating form. His efforts made history, marking New Zealand as the first team in 12 years to clinch a series in India. The incredible achievement for Santner, who secured two five-wicket hauls in one match for the first time, cemented his place as a crucial force in New Zealand's Test side.

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