IND vs NZ 2nd Test – Wriddhiman Saha doubtful for 2nd Test: India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey on Wednesday said the team management would take a call on Wriddhiman Saha’s availability closer to the second Test match, which begins here on Friday. Saha sat out of his wicketkeeping duties during the Kanpur Test, but did bat, scoring a fine 61 in the second innings. KS Bharat, who chipped in as a sub, could be handed his debut should the veteran Saha not return fully fit. Follow Insidesport.in for all IND vs NZ LIVE Updates.
“The physios are in touch constantly with the head coach Rahul (Dravid) and obviously Virat (Kohli) now and as we get closer to the game, we will take a call and see what condition he is in,” Mhambrey said at the virtual press conference on Wednesday.
IND NZ Mumbai Test: KS Bharat asked to be ready for 2nd test as Wriddhiman Saha stays doubtful
Stiffness in the neck did not allow India wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha to take the field on day five of the first Test against New Zealand on Monday. KS Bharat, who could make his debut on Friday, kept the wickets in his absence.
Saha scored a fighting 61 not out on day four to put India in a strong position after the hosts lost five wickets for 51 runs.
Bharat has a triple hundred as an opener and his inclusion would mean that both Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane would remain in the playing eleven. Mhambrey heaped praise on Saha for his effort in the Kanpur Test.
IND NZ Mumbai Test: KS Bharat asked to be ready for 2nd test as Wriddhiman Saha stays doubtful
“But obviously with whatever he (Saha) has been through, I think (it was a) fabulous effort in the last Test match to bat in that. It was painful, we realise that but he put his hand up and (said) the team wanted it and he delivered it for the team, really happy to see that,” added Mhambrey.
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