New Zealand sets 359 runs target for India after bowling them out for 255

New Zealand has set India a formidable target of 359 runs to win the second Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, after being bowled out for 255 runs in their second innings. With a total lead of 358 runs, India will need a strong performance to chase down the score. New Zealand's first innings saw them score 259 runs, while India struggled in their first innings, getting all out for just 156.

Captain Tom Latham led from the front, scoring a crucial 86 runs in the second innings. His efforts were supported by contributions from Tom Blundell (41), Glenn Phillips (not out 48), and Will Young (23), who helped consolidate New Zealand's position on a turning wicket.

On the bowling front for India, Washington Sundar showcased his skills, taking four wickets in the second innings, following a strong performance in the first innings. Ravindra Jadeja also made significant contributions, claiming three wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin took two. This continued pressure from the Indian bowlers led to a quick collapse of New Zealand's batting lineup after an overnight score of 198-5.

India's initial struggles were highlighted by their first innings total of just 156 runs, where only Yashasvi Jaiswal (30), Shubman Gill (30), and Ravindra Jadeja (38) managed to reach double figures. Mitchell Santner was the standout bowler for New Zealand, claiming seven wickets and crippling India's batting order.

As India embarks on their second innings, they made three changes to the lineup, bringing in Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Akash Deep while dropping KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, and Mohammed Siraj. Yashasvi Jaiswal is currently on 46 not out off 36 balls, helping India to 81-1 at lunch on day three. The Indian team is in a race against time to chase down this substantial target and equal the series, which New Zealand leads 1-0 after their eight-wicket victory in Bengaluru.