In a fiercely contested match, New Zealand was bowled out for 235, with Daryl Mitchell leading the charge with a spirited 82 runs. Ravindra Jadeja showcased his exceptional fitness and skill, claiming his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, finishing with figures of 5 for 65. Washington Sundar also contributed significantly, taking 4 wickets for 81 runs.
Mitchell’s Late Flourish
After tea, Mitchell exploded with three sixes in a flurry of aggressive batting, particularly targeting Washington Sundar’s bowling. This late onslaught elevated New Zealand’s total to a competitive score, despite missing the impactful spinner Mitchell Santner, who had troubled India in the previous Test.
Jadeja’s Consistent Threat
Jadeja’s performance was crucial, as he consistently attacked the stumps and turned the ball sharply at high pace. He claimed the wickets of Ish Sodhi and Matt Henry in quick succession, demonstrating his ability to adapt his pace and spin. Mitchell, however, fell to a mental lapse, guiding a delivery straight to slip after scoring 82 runs. Ajaz Patel contributed briefly with a six before being dismissed, giving Washington his fourth wicket.
India’s Early Strikes
Earlier in the day, India maintained pressure on New Zealand in the sweltering Mumbai heat. Washington Sundar dismissed Tom Latham and Rachin Ravindra in quick succession before lunch, while Jadeja took out Will Young and Tom Blundell in one over just before the tea break. These crucial wickets prevented New Zealand from establishing a substantial total, as Latham and Young initially looked comfortable.
Challenging Conditions
With temperatures soaring to 37 degrees Celsius and high humidity, players struggled to cope with the conditions, frequently requiring hydration breaks. Mitchell, in particular, battled through cramps and dehydration, yet managed to remain unbeaten as they approached the tea break.
Akash Deep’s Early Impact
Missing Jasprit Bumrah due to a viral illness, India started the innings with Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj. Akash utilized his angle effectively to trap Devon Conway lbw early in the match. Latham and Young added a steady 44 runs for the second wicket before Washington Sundar struck with a brilliant delivery that deceived Latham, followed by another that sent Ravindra back to the pavilion.
Jadeja’s Persistence
As the match progressed, Jadeja continued to bowl through the heat, demonstrating superior fitness while consistently troubling the New Zealand batsmen. Although there was a brief period when the pitch appeared less responsive, Jadeja’s persistence paid off as he began to extract turn and bounce in the latter stages of the day.
Despite the efforts of Mitchell and Young, New Zealand struggled to keep pace, and Jadeja’s relentless bowling proved decisive, helping to restrict their total and maintain India’s competitive edge in the match.
