"India Lacks Defensive Batters Like Pujara and Rahane: Aakash Chopra on Team's Challenges Against New Zealand"

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has criticized the current batting lineup for their inability to handle pressure during the first innings of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. The Indian batsmen succumbed to the clever bowling of Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips, leading to a disappointing performance characterized by poor shot selection and inadequate responses to effective field placements.

Chopra emphasized that India desperately needs players who can adopt a defensive approach, particularly on pitches that assist spin and seam. He lamented the absence of skilled players capable of navigating such challenges, stating, "Let’s face it, we do not play spin as well as we think. While there’s a perception that Indian batsmen excel against spin, the reality is different. Defensive batting is essential on turning and seaming tracks before attempting to score runs."

He highlighted the significance of players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, who were adept at anchoring innings. "They were instrumental in holding the innings together, but unfortunately, they are not in the current Test squad. There is not a single batter in the team who can play that kind of game. Spinners have consistently troubled us, and this is not a new issue," Chopra remarked on JioCinema.

As it stands, New Zealand leads the three-match series 1-0, following their eight-wicket victory in the first Test in Bengaluru. India faced two batting collapses in that match, and early signs suggest a repeat performance in the ongoing game, where they managed a mere 156 runs in their first innings—trailing by 103 runs. Santner's impressive haul of 7 wickets and Phillips' two dismissals have left India in a precarious position.