New Zealand have taken a lead of 32 runs in the ICC World Test Championship Final vs India. In a low scoring game like the one happening in Southampton, this could prove valuable in the second innings. In reply of India’s score of 217 runs, New Zealand managed to reach 249 runs. At one stage it appeared that they would concede a lead to India. However, their tail wagged and the Kiwis managed to not only reach India’s score but take a lead.
Starting the day at 101-2, New Zealand had a poor first session. Helped by some helpful conditions for fast bowling due to overcast atmosphere, Indian pacers managed to knock 3 wickets in the pre lunch period. The three wickets to fall were of Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and BJ Watling. Mohammad Shami and Ishant Sharma picked 2 and 1 wicket each.
Shami was excellent in the first session and bowled tight line and lengths at lively pace. Hence, he looked unplayable at times and was the most impressive pacer for India. His two wickets in the first session were of Taylor and Watling. While the former was dismissed when Shubhman Gill took a brilliant catch at covers, Watling became a victim of an outstanding delivery.
At lunch, New Zealand were at 135-5 and trailed India by 82 runs. Post lunch session, New Zealand came out with attacking intent. It was displayed when Kiwi all rounder Colin De Grandhomme smashed the first ball by Bumrah after lunch for a four. He tried to be aggressive against any scoring opportunity and not shying away from even taking the aerial route for runs.
Rishabh Pant’s funny prediction!
De Grand Homme’s overtly aggressive intent inspired Rishabh Pant to come up with a funny prediction. While the Kiwi all rounder was batting, Ravindra Jadeja came on to bowl. Hence, Pant shouted from behind the wicket – ” Isko pakad ke daalna Jaddu bhai. Ye lappa maarega Jddu bhai.” (Bowl him tightly. He will be out trying to play a big shot).
It was both a prediction and warning from Pant to Jadeja as a loose delivery would be punished by De Grandhomme. Hence, this clip instantly became viral on social media.
Watch the video of Pant’s statement here:
