Mumbai: In a historic Test match at the Wankhede Stadium, New Zealand achieved a remarkable 3-0 series whitewash over India, becoming the first team to secure such a feat on Indian soil. The Kiwis triumphed by 25 runs, thanks to stellar performances from their spinners, particularly Ajaz Patel.
Chasing a target of 147 runs in the final innings on Sunday, India faltered dramatically, collapsing to 121 all out. The turning point of the match came when Rishabh Pant, who scored a rapid 64 off 57 balls, was dismissed by Ajaz Patel in a controversial caught-behind decision that left the Indian batsman visibly distraught. Pant's wicket triggered a rapid decline in the Indian batting lineup, with the last four wickets falling for just 15 runs.
In the critical over from Patel, Pant struck two boundaries before being caught by Tom Blundell. A confident appeal from the New Zealand players was initially dismissed by the on-field umpire. However, after a review, the decision was overturned, leading to Pant's heartbreaking exit at 106 for 7.
The Kiwis continued to dominate, with Patel and Glenn Phillips taking vital wickets. Ravichandran Ashwin was caught behind off Phillips, and a quick succession of wickets culminated in Washington Sundar being bowled by Patel, sealing a historic victory for New Zealand.
Patel's impressive figures of 6 for 57 in the second innings marked him as the third New Zealand bowler to achieve multiple ten-wicket hauls in a Test match. His performance, complemented by Phillips' 3 for 42, rendered the Indian batting lineup ineffective against spin, despite India's extensive preparations for the match.
New Zealand's totals of 235 and 174 proved sufficient for victory, while India struggled with scores of 263 and 121. This Test series will be remembered not only for the scoreline but also for the skill and determination displayed by the New Zealand team, setting a benchmark for future tours.
At lunch on Day 3 of the second Test, India faced a precarious situation, requiring 55 runs to secure victory. Following a tumultuous morning session, their score languished at 92 for 6 in the second innings.
The Indian batting order struggled significantly against the New Zealand spinners, with Rohit Sharma (11), Shubman Gill (1), and Virat Kohli (1) all dismissed cheaply, leaving the hosts in a challenging position as they fought to stay in the match.
