Image Credit: BCCI
India’s Late Collapse Hands New Zealand the Edge in Third Test
On Day 1 of the third Test between India and New Zealand, India’s Ravindra Jadeja shone with the ball, taking an impressive five-wicket haul (5/65) on a spinning Wankhede track, restricting New Zealand to 235.
However, a surprising batting collapse in the last ten minutes of play shifted the momentum, giving New Zealand the upper hand.
Jadeja’s Dominance Sets the Tone Early
India began their innings confidently, reaching 78/1, but a dramatic sequence of events in the last overs changed the tone. Yashasvi Jaiswal, attempting a risky reverse sweep, was bowled, sparking a series of dismissals. Mohammad Siraj, sent in as a night watchman, was dismissed first ball, followed by a misjudged single that resulted in Virat Kohli’s run-out, leaving India at 86/4, 149 runs behind New Zealand’s total.
Jadeja’s bowling was pivotal in dismantling New Zealand’s middle order, demonstrating his regained form by dismissing set batsmen like Will Young, who scored a hard-fought 71. Young’s dismissal triggered a collapse as Jadeja removed Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips in quick succession, applying significant pressure on the Kiwis.
Daryl Mitchell’s Resistance Boosts New Zealand
New Zealand’s innings was held together by Daryl Mitchell, who scored a crucial 82 despite battling the Mumbai heat and muscle spasms. Mitchell’s resilience helped New Zealand to a competitive total, putting the visitors in a strong position.
Uphill Task for India’s Batters in Second Innings
Captain Rohit Sharma began the day with spinners R Ashwin and Washington Sundar in an attempt to unsettle New Zealand’s openers. Sundar made an immediate impact by dismissing Tom Latham early, but the Black Caps fought back, with Young’s sweep shots adding to their tally.
However, the day’s final moments shifted the game’s balance drastically. Kohli’s run-out was a blow to India’s chances, leaving the home side facing an uphill task. With New Zealand gaining confidence, India’s batters now face a tough challenge, as they look to avoid a potential clean sweep on home soil.
