IND vs NZ: On Day 2 of the third Test in Mumbai, India showcased a splendid performance, leaving New Zealand grappling with the challenge. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant started the day with flair, scoring 90 and 60 runs respectively, setting a solid foundation for India.
IND vs NZ: Ravichandran Ashwin Warns India Ahead Of Day 3 In Mumbai
Stellar Batting Performance
Transitioning from the openers, Washington Sundar made a significant impact with a brisk 38, propelling India to a total of 263. This response not only matched but exceeded New Zealand’s first innings score of 235, securing India a crucial 28-run lead.
Bowling Masterclass by Ashwin and Jadeja
The second innings saw India’s spin duo, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, take center stage. Ashwin, known for his strategic bowling, clinched three wickets, while Jadeja, with his relentless spin, captured four. Their combined efforts reduced New Zealand to a precarious 171/9 by the close of play.
Fielding Excellence
Moreover, India’s fielding was nothing short of exemplary. Ashwin highlighted this aspect during his post-play interview, emphasizing how every run saved could prove vital in the final innings. “Hopefully not many, we should wrap it up with one or two runs here and there. Any runs saved in this innings is going to be much more critical for us when we chase it down,” he stated, underscoring the importance of tight fielding.
Pitch Conditions: A Surprise Element
Interestingly, Ashwin also shared insights into the pitch conditions. “It’s not going to be easy, we’ll have to bat really well. I expected a lot more bounce and speed from this Mumbai pitch, it has been quite slow which is a surprise for me. It’s not a typical Bombay pitch, but much slower than usual,” he remarked, indicating the unexpected nature of the pitch might play a significant role in the match’s outcome.
Looking Ahead
As the match progresses, India seems well-poised to leverage their first-innings lead and the psychological advantage gained from their bowling and fielding prowess. The final innings will test New Zealand’s resilience, but India, with their current momentum, appears set to push for a decisive victory.
This day’s play not only highlighted India’s strategic depth but also set the stage for an intriguing battle in the remaining days of the Test. With the momentum in their favor, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how India capitalizes on this advantageous position.
