The 3rd Test between India and New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, has provided an exciting and balanced contest, marked by skillful batting and effective bowling from both sides. New Zealand began their innings after winning the toss, choosing to bat in what seemed like favorable early conditions. They set a moderate total of 235, courtesy of noteworthy contributions from Will Young and Daryl Mitchell, each displaying resilience and determination against India’s bowling attack.
New Zealand’s First Innings: A Steady Start with Middle Order Resistance
New Zealand’s opening stand faced an early setback with Devon Conway’s dismissal for just 4 runs, courtesy of some tight bowling from the Indian pacers. However, Will Young took the lead in stabilizing the innings. His composed 71 off 138 balls, featuring four boundaries and two sixes, was pivotal in building a foundation for New Zealand. Together with Tom Latham, who chipped in with 28 runs, Young managed to anchor New Zealand past the initial scare.
Despite this promising partnership, New Zealand encountered a middle-order collapse after Latham’s dismissal. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar took advantage of the pitch’s turn and bounce, with Jadeja claiming five wickets and Sundar contributing four. Their combined effort, particularly against New Zealand’s middle and lower order, restricted the visitors from mounting a larger score. Daryl Mitchell, however, showed exceptional skill and patience. His 89 off 129 balls, with three boundaries and three sixes, kept New Zealand competitive, adding crucial runs despite wickets tumbling at the other end
Jadeja’s fifer and Sundar’s four-wicket haul highlighted India’s effective spin-bowling strategy on a pitch conducive to turn. Their success reflects both bowlers’ experience in subcontinental conditions, where they consistently utilized spin variations to unsettle New Zealand’s batsmen.
India’s Response: A Stuttering Start with a Strong Middle Order Recovery
India began their first innings under pressure, facing disciplined New Zealand bowling. Rohit Sharma’s poor run continued, departing after a quick 18, and India soon found themselves in trouble with four down for just 86 runs. Shubman Gill, however, took on the challenge with poise, crafting an essential inning that steadied India’s response.
Gill’s calm yet effective approach helped him reach an unbeaten 70 by lunch on Day 2. His 106-ball knock included four boundaries and a six, as he adapted to both pace and spin with calculated shots. Rishabh Pant, known for his aggressive style, capitalized on New Zealand’s momentary lapses, smashing a quickfire 60 off 59 balls. His confident strike rate kept the scoreboard ticking and complemented Gill’s steady presence at the other end.
Pant’s performance was pivotal in shifting momentum. He utilized gaps and played innovative shots to challenge the New Zealand spinners, especially Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi. Although Sodhi managed to dismiss Pant LBW, the damage had been done, and Pant’s aggressive 60 brought India within reach of New Zealand’s total
The Current Stand: A Balanced Contest Heading into the Afternoon
By the lunch interval on Day 2, India was at 195/5, trailing New Zealand by just 40 runs. With Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja at the crease, India is in a good position to potentially gain a first-innings lead. Gill’s role as an anchor has been crucial, while Jadeja, with his extensive experience, is expected to add stability and ensure India maximizes their innings.
New Zealand’s bowling lineup, however, has shown persistence. Ish Sodhi’s comeback to Test cricket has been impressive, as he contributed to breaking partnerships and kept the pressure on India’s batsmen. Ajaz Patel, despite being slightly expensive, has also added value with two key wickets, helping to keep New Zealand in contention
Afternoon Expectations and Strategic Insights
As the game progresses into the second session of Day 2, both teams have clear objectives. India will aim to establish a lead and set a solid platform by capitalizing on the later middle order and lower-order depth. With all-rounders like Jadeja and Axar Patel yet to play, India possesses the depth to extend their innings. However, maintaining partnerships will be essential to avoid exposing their tailenders prematurely.
For New Zealand, early wickets in the afternoon session will be critical. By dismissing India’s remaining batsmen, they can limit the lead and keep the match within reach. Their spinners, particularly Sodhi and Ajaz Patel, will likely play a significant role as the pitch continues to offer turn and bounce. Any additional breakthroughs, especially early in the session, will relieve pressure on their batsmen in the next innings.
This Test thus far has highlighted the strengths of both teams – New Zealand’s ability to construct partnerships in challenging conditions, India’s dynamic middle order, and the effective use of spin on a turning pitch. As the game unfolds, each session promises to swing the advantage in either direction, adding to the excitement and suspense of this well-contested series.
