In a dramatic first day of the third Test at Wankhede Stadium, India ended the opening day at 86 for 4, trailing New Zealand’s total of 235 by 149 runs. The Indian innings suffered a late collapse, losing three wickets in the final two overs, overshadowing Ravindra Jadeja’s impressive five-wicket haul.
Jadeja, bowling tirelessly in the oppressive heat and humidity, recorded his 14th Test five-for, finishing with figures of 5 for 65. He played a pivotal role in dismantling a resolute New Zealand batting lineup that had threatened to establish a dominant total. Daryl Mitchell and Will Young both notched half-centuries, scoring 82 and 71 runs respectively, and together added 87 runs for the fourth wicket.
The New Zealand innings started steadily, with Tom Latham contributing 28 runs before falling to Washington Sundar, who also claimed 4 wickets. After a shaky start at 72 for 3, Mitchell and Young consolidated, but it was Jadeja’s persistence that turned the tide, culminating in New Zealand’s collapse from 159 for 3 to 235 all out.
In response, India’s batting lineup initially showed promise, with Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal putting together a 53-run partnership. However, a flurry of wickets just before stumps derailed their progress. Jaiswal was dismissed attempting a reverse sweep, and in a bizarre sequence, nightwatchman Mohammed Siraj wasted a review on what turned out to be a clear dismissal. The day ended in disarray for India as Virat Kohli was run out while attempting a risky single.
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The day began with New Zealand opting to bat first after winning the toss, and they capitalized on what appeared to be favorable conditions. Despite the Indian bowlers’ efforts, particularly Jadeja and Sundar, the New Zealand batsmen managed to settle into their innings before the home side struck back late in the session.
As the sun set over Mumbai, India’s hopes rested heavily on Gill, who remained unbeaten on 31. With the pitch expected to deteriorate, India will need a strong comeback to stay in contention to avoid a series whitewash against a determined New Zealand side.
Day 1 Summary:
– New Zealand: 235 all out (Mitchell 82, Young 71; Jadeja 5-65, Washington 4-81)
– India: 86 for 4 (Gill 31, Jaiswal 30; Ajaz Patel 2-33)
– Trail by: 149 runs
