Veteran batter KL Rahul has been dropped from India's playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune. The decision comes after Rahul's disappointing performances in the first Test in Bengaluru, where he managed just 0 and 12 in his two innings. Despite being publicly backed by coach Gautam Gambhir, Rahul was replaced by Shubman Gill, who returns to the squad after missing the series opener due to fitness concerns.
Gambhir, known for his strong backing of players during tough times, had staunchly defended Rahul ahead of the second Test. "You don't pick players based on social media noise or what the experts are saying," Gambhir asserted on the eve of the match. "What matters is the team's belief and the leadership group's confidence. Ultimately, players are judged over time, not by one or two innings."
Rahul's removal comes after a rough outing in the first Test in Bengaluru, where India was bundled out for a dismal 46 runs in their first innings, leading to an eight-wicket loss. Rahul's failure to convert starts has been a growing concern for the team management, despite Gambhir's backing. His exclusion gives Gill a chance to reestablish himself in the side, having missed the first Test due to fitness issues.
Along with Rahul, two other changes were made to the Indian lineup: Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj were replaced by Washington Sundar and Akash Deep. Sundar, who last played a Test in 2021, has returned to the team after impressing with a century in his last domestic outing for Tamil Nadu during the Ranji Trophy. His all-round capabilities will add depth to both India's batting and bowling. Akash Deep, who impressed in domestic cricket, comes in to bolster India's pace attack
Indian captain Rohit Sharma admitted that the decision to leave Rahul out was difficult but necessary. "We would have liked to bat first as well, but we are prepared. Regardless of the conditions, we need to play better cricket than we did in Bengaluru," said Sharma at the toss. "Not having enough runs on the board hurt us last time, but we are confident in our ability to bounce back."
He also praised the newcomers, saying, "Shubman has been working hard, and we know what Washington and Akash bring to the table. The pitch looks a bit drier here in Pune, and we aim to make the most of it, especially in the early stages."
New Zealand captain Tom Latham won the toss and opted to bat first. The Kiwis made just one change to their side, with all-rounder Mitchell Santner replacing Matt Henry, who had picked up eight wickets in the previous Test.
The visitors will be confident heading into the second Test after their comprehensive victory in Bengaluru, and with the pitch in Pune expected to favor the spinners, Santner's inclusion gives them added depth in the bowling department.
Playing XIs:
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah.
New Zealand: Tom Latham (C), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (WK), Glenn Phillips, Tim Southee, Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, William O'Rourke.
