Simon Doull Critiques Indian Batters' Struggles Against Spin

Former cricketer Simon Doull criticizes modern Indian batters for their struggles against spin during the Pune Test, suggesting they're no longer exceptional against spinners. New Zealand's Mitchell Santner exploited this, putting India's long-standing unbeaten home series record at risk.

Former New Zealand cricketer and broadcaster Simon Doull has delivered a stinging critique of India's batting capabilities against spin in the ongoing Pune Test against New Zealand. He argues that the belief modern Indian players excel against spinners like Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips is a misconception.

The underwhelming performance of Indian batters in the first innings has placed them at significant risk of an unprecedented series loss on home soil. This could jeopardize their impressive 12-year, 18-series unbeaten stretch at home.

Doull commented post-innings that today's Indian players do not match the spin-play prowess of past greats like Saurav Ganguly, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rahul Dravid. He remarked that current players even voice concerns about turning pitches during the IPL.

Meanwhile, New Zealand, having won the toss, scored big thanks to half-centuries from Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra. India's bowling response was led by a seven-wicket haul from Washington Sundar. However, India faltered with the bat, bowled out for 156, courtesy of Santner's 7/53.

As New Zealand began their second innings building their lead, the pressure mounts on India to prevent a rare home series defeat.

(With inputs from agencies.)