2nd Test, Day 3 (Lunch), October 26, Location– In pursuit of a 359-run target, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill lifted India's spirits after an early setback with captain Rohit Sharma falling to Mitchell Santner.

2nd Test, Day 3 (Lunch), October 26, Location– In pursuit of a 359-run target, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill lifted India's spirits after an early setback with captain Rohit Sharma falling to Mitchell Santner.
Image Source By : ANI

Pune, Maharashtra, October 26 – Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill brought renewed energy to the atmosphere in Pune as India began a challenging chase of 359 runs against New Zealand on Day 3, Saturday.

At lunch, India stood at 81/1, with Jaiswal and Gill unbeaten at 46 (36) and 22 (20), respectively, leaving 278 runs to reach the target.

Earlier in the day, Ravindra Jadeja spearheaded New Zealand’s collapse, swiftly dismissing their lower order and limiting the visitors to 255. Jaiswal and captain Rohit Sharma then opened India’s innings confidently. However, after Tim Southee and William O'Rourke’s initial impact with the new ball faded, Mitchell Santner made a critical intervention.

Santner struck just as Jaiswal was finding his rhythm. Rohit, looking to play an attacking stroke against Santner, mistimed his shot and edged the ball directly to Will Young, quieting the energized crowd. Gill then took his place, invigorating India’s chase.

The duo, displaying an aggressive batting approach, countered New Zealand’s tough bowling lineup, aiming to make history. India has chased a 300-plus target only once before, achieving it in 2008 against England in Chennai, with 14 losses in the 26 attempts.

Jaiswal’s classic drives and Gill’s skillful sweeps neutralized New Zealand’s spin attack, displaying their determination to avoid a series defeat. As India continues the chase, they stand 278 runs away from a memorable victory on home ground.

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