The second match of the three-match Test series between India and New Zealand is being played at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. By the end of the second day’s play, the visitors have tightened their grip on the game. The New Zealand team currently holds a lead of 301 runs and still has five wickets remaining in their second innings. On the third day, New Zealand will be aiming to set a target of over 400 for India. If India is given a target above 400 runs, they’ll need a historic performance to save pride, as the Indian team has never successfully chased a target of over 400 at home.
On the other hand, India will be hoping to dismiss the visitors as quickly as possible on the third day. If Team India manages to restrict New Zealand to a score below 400, they might still have a slim chance of winning.
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India Has Only Chased a 300+ Target at Home Once
In the history of Test cricket, India has had the opportunity to chase a target of 300 or more at home five times. Out of these, three matches ended in draws, while one match was tied. India’s only victory in such a scenario came against England in 2008.
- 1948 vs West Indies – Draw
- 1949 vs West Indies – Draw
- 1979 vs Pakistan – Draw
- 1986 vs Australia – Tie
- 2008 vs England – Win
In that 2008 match, England set India a target of 387 runs. With a rapid half-century from Virender Sehwag and an impressive century from Sachin Tendulkar, India secured a historic win.
It is worth noting that New Zealand is leading the series 1-0, having won the first match. If India loses the second match, it will be the first time since 2012 that they have lost a Test series at home, ending their proud home record.
