India keeps WTC final hopes alive with strong start against New Zealand

MUMBAI: India gained a slight upper hand on the opening day of the third Test in the ongoing India-New Zealand series, as their bowlers seized control on a spin-friendly pitch. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar starred with the ball, as New Zealand were bowled out for 235 in 65 overs. Jadeja took a five-wicket haul, conceding 65 runs, while Sundar claimed 4 wickets for 81.

Despite a resilient performance from Will Young, who scored a determined 71 runs after coming in at No. 3 and Darryl Mitchell’s impressive knock of 82 off 129 balls, New Zealand struggled to build a solid total. Mitchell’s innings, which included three boundaries and three sixes, stood out as the highest score for the visitors. He was the ninth batter to fall, with New Zealand at 228.

India’s bowling unit, though missing key pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who was sidelined, found rhythm with Mohammed Siraj stepping up in his place. Siraj delivered a disciplined spell, conceding only 16 runs from his six overs, though he remained wicketless.

The New Zealand innings began with an early setback as opener Devon Conway was dismissed for just 4 runs, trapped leg-before by Akash Deep with the score at 15. From there, Jadeja and Sundar took charge, dismantling the middle and lower order, leaving New Zealand unable to establish partnerships. Mitchell Santner, the left-arm spinner who had troubled India in previous encounters, was absent due to injury, leaving the New Zealand lineup further weakened.