IND vs NZ 3rd Test Match Highlights
In a landmark moment for New Zealand cricket, the Kiwis have achieved a 3-0 whitewash against India on Indian soil. This unprecedented feat marks the first time India has been swept in a home Test series consisting of three or more matches. The series finale, the 3rd Test Match, was a testament to New Zealand’s dominance and strategic prowess as they beat India by 25 runs here at Mumbai. Let’s look at IND vs NZ 3rd Test Match Highlights.
Chasing a modest target of 146 runs, India’s batting line-up crumbled under pressure. The home side lost five wickets within the first eight overs, with just 29 runs on the scoreboard. The early blows were dealt by New Zealand’s seam and spin combination, with Rohit Sharma dismissed due to a rash shot and Shubman Gill bowled after leaving a delivery.
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Virat Kohli, Jaiswal, and Sarfaraz also departed quickly, leaving India in deep trouble. This loss marked India’s first whitewash in a home series of three or more Tests. New Zealand’s discipline and adaptability in challenging conditions paved the way for this landmark achievement, and Ajaz Patel’s exceptional spin bowling proved decisive.
IND vs NZ Series Summary (Final Test Key Moments)
- Series Victory: New Zealand won the series 3-0, the first team to whitewash India in a home series.
- Ajaz Patel’s Impact: Ajaz Patel took five wickets in the first innings and six in the second, dismantling India’s batting lineup.
- India’s Batting Struggles: India’s top order collapsed, losing five wickets within eight overs in the final innings.
- Pant’s Resistance: Rishabh Pant fought back with a quick fifty but could not steer India to victory.
- Historic Loss: This series marked India’s first whitewash at home in a three-match Test series.
Ajaz Patel’s Spin Magic Shines Again
Ajaz Patel, the left-arm spinner who famously took ten wickets in an innings during his previous visit to India, emerged as the hero for New Zealand once more. In the first innings, he picked up five crucial wickets, restricting India from gaining a significant lead.
Patel’s control and precision proved too much for the Indian batters, who found themselves unable to handle his spin variations. His six-wicket haul in the second innings was the final nail in the coffin, as he spun New Zealand to an emphatic series win.
Rishabh Pant’s Lone Fight In Vain
In the midst of the collapse, Rishabh Pant offered some resistance with a quick-fire fifty, scoring at a strike rate above 100. His aggressive approach kept India’s hopes alive as he launched a counterattack against the Kiwi bowlers.
Unfortunately, his innings came to an end due to a successful review by New Zealand, signaling the end of India’s chase. Pant’s dismissal was followed by quick wickets, and Ajaz Patel wrapped up the game with another stellar bowling performance.