xtratime Logo

Xtra Time Web Desk: Following India's 113-run loss to New Zealand in the second Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune, captain Rohit Sharma emphasized that he is not seeking to conduct a postmortem of the team's performance. This defeat marked India's first series loss at home in over 11 years, ending their impressive streak of 18 consecutive series victories on home soil.

Despite the setback, Sharma believes that the team does not require significant changes, stating, "There’s no need for a major change in the team." He remains confident in the squad's capabilities moving forward.

Read More: IND vs NZ: How India can still qualify for WTC final despite crushing home series loss to New Zealand?

“It has happened in the last two Test matches, we’ve won 18 consecutive series at home which means we’ve done a lot of things right. We’ve performed well exceptionally over the past number of years. Hence, I won’t go too much deep into it and that we’ve messed up a lot. I think 2-3 innings we’ve underperformed with the bat but it happens when you’re performing consistently for so long, you come under a loss,” said Rohit in the post-match press conference.

“I don’t want to doubt anyone’s potential. These guys have helped us remain unbeaten at home for so long and hence I don’t want to do any postmortem. But we can see what we can do to come out of such situations and batters should come out with trust in their plan. New Zealand batters also showed that if you put bowlers under pressure things will happen in your favour,” he added.

Read More: IND vs NZ: Kohli’s struggle against Santner persists – dismissed for just 17

On Day 3, India faced the daunting task of chasing a massive target of 359 runs in the fourth innings but was bundled out for just 245. Yashasvi Jaiswal was the standout performer, providing some resistance with an aggressive knock of 77 runs off 65 balls. Unfortunately, no other batter stepped up, leading to India’s third Test loss at home this year.

Following consecutive defeats, India’s hopes of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final have taken a significant hit. To keep their chances alive, they must win four of their remaining six matches. The team now turns its focus to the third Test against New Zealand, set to take place at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai starting Friday, November 1.