Ind vs NZ 3rd Test: New Zealand does the unthinkable against India and stuns with their first-ever 3-0 test whitewash on Indian soil!
MUMBAI, Nov 2, 2024 - New Zealand made history today as they completed a 3-0 Test series whitewash over India with a tense, narrow 25-run victory in the third Test match at the Wankhede Stadium, winning every Test in a series of three or more matches on Indian soil for the first time in nearly nine decades.
Ajaz Patel led New Zealand's attack as he wound up with six wickets in the final innings, bringing his match total to 11. It marked a milestone in his tally at Wankhede, matching his three years ago in making a perfect ten on debut. Back then, home crowds fell silent while today again Ajaz once had his way with it and Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry bowling their hearts, sending India reeling over to make just 121 in their chase.
A Gladiatorial Last Stand
India's chase began shakily as the top order folded within the first six overs. Rohit Sharma miscued a pull from Henry, Shubman Gill was bowled by Ajaz, and Virat Kohli was caught at slip. At 18 for three, India relied on Rishabh Pant's grit and counter-attacking strokes and clever shot placement for survival.
Pant received some brief support from Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja, taking India to 92 for six at lunch. Indians were still heartbroken from the post-lunch session as Sundar was guilty of an ill-timed heave off Ajaz and the ball thudded into the stumps, taking the game away from Indians. Kiwis celebrated it in style and left stunned Wankhede silent.
Critical Moments and Contributions by Players
Glenn Phillips ensured the Indian batsmen made exits at crucial stages along with Ajaz Patel six, who tore into India's batting order. For New Zealand, Pant was only answer, as aggressive knock with nine fours and six balls in 57 almost completed the job as things tilted in favor for Kiwi team after the dismiss of Pant. India could do nothing against Glenn and Ajaz as they took India to lower order from there was no chance to even mount a comeback.
In New Zealand's second innings, a crucial knock of 51 runs came from Will Young, which anchored his team's total, setting the platform for a challenging target. The total proved enough against the Indian team as they failed to cope with the spin-friendly conditions, where Ajaz's skills dominated.
Historical Impact
New Zealand won a series on Indian soil, something no visiting team has ever done, winning the series 2-0 with a clean sweep of all matches in the multi-match Test series. This marks the growing prowess of New Zealand in Test cricket and forms a significant milestone in the captaincy of Tom Latham.
Ajaz Patel won the Player of the Match, while Will Young received the Player of the Series award for his consistent performance.
This series loss presents questions for India's Test team as they head into rebuild and overcome frailties the Kiwi bowlers portray. With this win, New Zealand firmly sets itself more solidly in position to be considered a significant force for world cricket and has prospered at being effective when the going is bad against it, specifically in bad home conditions.