Washington Sundar rocks New Zealand with his superb 7-wicket haul in Pune Test

Washington Sundar rocked New Zealand batters with a sensational six-wicket haul on Day 1 of the second Test in Pune. Sundar repaid the team management's faith with a superb bowling effort in Pune.

In Short

• Washington Sundar rocked New Zealand batters in Pune
• Sundar picked his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket
• India bowled New Zealand out for 259 on Day 1

Washington Sundar made a significant impact on Day 1 of the second Test between India and New Zealand at the MCA Stadium in Pune, securing his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Drafted into the Indian squad as a tactical move to counter New Zealand's left-handers, Sundar justified his inclusion by wreaking havoc on the Kiwi batting lineup.

New Zealand started the day on a positive note, with opener Devon Conway (76 off 141 balls) leading from the front, supported by Rachin Ravindra (65 off 105 balls). The duo, along with Tom Blundell, looked set to dominate the second session, but Sundar's precise off-spin changed the course of the game, giving India a critical advantage.

The turning point came when Sundar broke the threatening 88-run third-wicket partnership between Ravindra and Conway by dismissing the former with a sharp delivery that spun past the outside edge. Ravindra's dismissal was quickly followed by Blundell's, who fell off the last ball of the session, giving India much-needed momentum heading into Tea.

Sundar's dream spell continued as he claimed the prized wicket of Daryl Mitchell right after the break, removing him for 12 runs. Mitchell, who has been in fine form in recent months, was deceived by Sundar's flight and turn, edging one to the slips. With the Kiwis struggling at 252/9, the pressure mounted as India capitalized on their breakt