IND vs NZ 2nd Test: Fans Outraged, Memes Galore Ensues as India Shockingly Lose Home Series to New Zealand

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In a historic setback, India suffered a crushing 113-run defeat to New Zealand in Pune, marking New Zealand's first Test series win in India. This 2-0 loss in the three-match series has also ended India's 18-series winning streak at home, a streak that stretched back to 2012.

The Black Caps, who recently lost a series in Sri Lanka, defied expectations to triumph on India's traditionally spin-friendly pitches, highlighting the resilience of New Zealand's relatively inexperienced squad under captain Tom Latham.

Fans took to social media to express disappointment and frustration, directing much of their ire at senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit, who managed only a duck and eight in his two innings, and Kohli, with scores of 1 and 17, faced calls from fans to consider retirement.

One fan wrote, "Dear Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, we enjoyed your every single moment in cricket, now please retire respectfully." Another fan wrote, "Even at the age of 40, Sachin Tendulkar Played Domestic Cricket! It's High time, Both Kohli/Rohit to follow the Same!"

Many fans also demanded that the two stars play domestic cricket to regain form, as their contributions continue to lag in high-stakes matches. Comparisons between former head coach Ravi Shastri and current coach Gautam Gambhir have also emerged.

A third fan wrote, "My respect has increased for Ravi Shastri, the coach. He was 10x better than this fraud." Many fans contrast Shastri's notable overseas wins with Gambhir's recent struggle to defend India's home turf. India now faces a critical five-Test series against Australia, a pivotal challenge as they aim to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final.

India's fall in Pune was set in motion after Latham opted to bat first. Despite a seven-wicket haul from Washington Sundar, New Zealand's total of 259 proved challenging for the hosts. India, responding with a meager 156, struggled against left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, who dismantled India's lineup with a seven-wicket spell.

In their second innings, New Zealand added 255 runs, setting a formidable target of 359 for India. Despite a promising start led by Yashasvi Jaiswal's quick-fire 77, India faltered as Santner again wreaked havoc, taking six wickets to seal a 113-run victory.