Gautam Gambhir Supports Rahul Amidst New Zealand Test Showdown

India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, defends K.L. Rahul as New Zealand prepares for a challenging second test match. Despite India's earlier loss in Bengaluru, Gambhir is optimistic about Rahul's form and potential. The test will be crucial for determining India's continued dominance in home series.

India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has thrown his support behind K.L. Rahul, expressing confidence in the player's ability to reclaim his form, even as New Zealand gears up for spin challenges in the second test starting Thursday. India's untarnished home series record since 2012 hangs in the balance after an eight-wicket defeat in Bengaluru.

Despite a dismal first innings score of 46, India's improved second innings performance with a total of 462, led by Sarfaraz Khan's impressive 150, was insufficient. Rahul, who managed scores of zero and 12, faces strong competition from Khan in the batting ranks. Nonetheless, Gambhir assures that a fit-again Shubman Gill will be back, along with his faith in Rahul's potential.

Gambhir, addressing reporters, emphasized the insignificance of social media criticism over team management opinions. India's strategy might include off-spinner Washington Sundar to counter New Zealand's left-handers. As New Zealand anticipates India's traditional spin-friendly pitch in Pune, Rachin Ravindra mentioned adjustments will be key to their approach.

(With inputs from agencies.)