Mitchell Santner hailed as New Zealand's 'national hero' for breaking India's fortress after 70 years

In just three days, Mitchell Santner went from being criticized for his performance as a spinner in first-class cricket to being hailed as a national hero in New Zealand. His incredible figures of 13 for 157 in the second Test in Pune against India not only helped New Zealand win the match but also secured them their first Test series victory in India since England in 2012-13. Santner's seven wickets in the first innings and a magnificent six-for in the second innings showcased his exceptional talent and skill as a bowler. This outstanding performance solidified his place as one of the best bowlers in the world.

- Santner, in all probability, would not have even played this Test had offspin-bowling allrounder Michael Bracewell been available for selection. New Zealand were definitely looking for an extra spinner in place of the inured Matt Henry to make better use of the conditions, favouring spin in Pune but Santner was the third choice. The lead spinner was, of course, Ajaz Patel and second in line was Bracewell. With the latter not being available, did the team management bring Santner into the XI?

- Before the Pune Test, Santner had a bowling average of 42.16 and a strike rate of 91.6. He had taken some tap in the Tests against Sri Lanka in Galle and had never picked up a four-wicket haul in Test cricket, let alone a five-for. His best figures were 3/34 against South Africa.

- Santner had an injury on his bowling side right from the start of the second innings. Despite this, he bowled 29 overs, missing just one over from his end since he started bowling in the first innings.

Not known to be a big spinner of the ball, Santner varied his pace like no other. He used the angles to fox the Indian batters. After the match ended on Saturday, former New Zealand keeper Ian Smith said on commentary: "Mitchell Santner has become New Zealand's national hero in three days."

"Every time you take wickets, you get a little more confident," Santner said. "I felt that today... Every time I got a wicket, it got a little better." Before Saturday, a visiting New Zealand team had never won a Test series in India dating back to their first trip in 1955.

India bowled out New Zealand for 255 inside the first hour of play and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal in his 65-ball 77 came out attacking to raise hopes of a miracle.

India lost Rohit for eight but raced to 81-1 at lunch in 12 overs.

Santner took down Shubman Gill for 23 soon after the break to end a 62-run second-wicket stand with the left-handed Jaiswal, who powered on after reaching his fifty.

The in-form spinner finally had Jaiswal caught at slip, run out Rishabh Pant for a duck and trapped Virat Kohli lbw, dousing India's chances.

Glenn Phillips chipped in with the wicket of Washington Sundar for 21.