Ravichandran Ashwin gives India first breakthrough (Screengrabs)

NEW DELHI: Ravichandran Ashwin provided an early breakthrough India desperately needed by dismissing New Zealand captain Tom Latham in the second Test at the MCA Stadium in Pune on Thursday.
Ashwin bowled with usual precision and struck in his fifth spell, proving why he is a formidable force on Indian pitches.
Ashwin approached the crease around the wicket and threw the ball onto leg stump. As he turned sharply after landing, Latham tried to block him on the leg side but remained vulnerable.
The ball crashed into his pads and the referee didn't hesitate to put his finger up for the lbw decision.
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Latham, who had scored 15 runs off 22 balls and two boundaries, chose not to review the decision and thus took the first wicket of the day.
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This dismissal was significant as it highlighted Ashwin's continued dominance against Latham.
In their previous encounters, Ashwin Latham has dismissed nine times in 11 innings while maintaining a remarkable average of 14.22. This consistency contributes to Ashwin's reputation as one of the best spinners in Test cricketespecially on home soil.
Ashwin continued his brilliant performance by dismissing Will Young, who was caught behind by Rishabh Pant, further cementing India's influence in the second Test against New Zealand.
With this wicket, Ashwin not only gave India their second breakthrough but also became the leading wicket-taker in the world World Test Championship (WTC) Story.
New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first, setting the stage for a challenging morning session for their batsmen. With Ashwin at the helm, India will be looking to build on this early success and put pressure on the New Zealand batting line-up.