In a highly anticipated showdown, the third Test between India and New Zealand commenced under the vibrant skies of Mumbai. New Zealand’s decision to bat first on what appeared to be a sun-baked pitch was expected to test the mettle of both teams. However, India’s Washington Sundar had other plans, as he unleashed a sensational spell of off-spin to keep the hosts firmly in the contest on the first morning.
The start of the match saw New Zealand losing their key opener Devon Conway early in the innings. The talented left-hander fell lbw to a probing delivery from Akash Deep, who exploited the slight movement available on a pitch with moisture tucked beneath its surface. This dismissal put an early dent in New Zealand’s line-up and brought together Tom Latham and Will Young at the crease. The pair, with their combined experience and technical prowess, began to consolidate New Zealand’s innings, stitching together a potentially promising stand.
Latham and Young seemed untroubled initially and started building a partnership that was gradually blossoming into a 44-run stand for the second wicket. Both batsmen exhibited confidence, handling the initial spin threat posed by Ravichandran Ashwin with composure. However, the introduction of Washington Sundar proved to be a pivotal moment in the first session.
Sundar, coming into the attack, immediately exerted pressure with his clever variations and well-disguised drift. The off-spinner, known for his ability to exploit any hint of turn and bounce, orchestrated a breakthrough with a delivery that outfoxed the set Latham. The left-hander misjudged the line and succumbed, bowled through the gate, providing a massive uplift for India and disrupting New Zealand’s progress.
With Tom Latham back in the pavilion, the momentum slightly veered in favor of the hosts. Rachin Ravindra was the next to face the relentless assault from Sundar.
. Once again, Sundar’s mastery of flight and subtle turn came to fore, as Ravindra too fell prey, bowled by another beauty that zipped off the pitch and knocked his stumps. Washington Sundar’s impactful spell pegged New Zealand back further, leaving the visitors at a precarious 92/3 before the lunch interval.
During this engaging battle, Will Young stood as an anchor for New Zealand, demonstrating commendable poise and resilience amidst the storm that Sundar stirred around him. Young, in an impressive innings, remained unbeaten at the break, partnering with Daryl Mitchell to steady the ship. Their combined effort was crucial in weathering the spin onslaught initiated by Sundar.
As the session unfolded, India found themselves with a valuable edge despite missing the services of Jasprit Bumrah, who was sidelined due to illness. The responsibility of spearheading the Indian bowling attack fell onto Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep. The latter, in particular, was instrumental with the crucial early breakthrough of Conway, making good use of the limited assistance offered by the surface.
Moving forward into the second session, the pitch was anticipated to provide further assistance to spinners. Signs of increasing turn raised the stakes, especially with figures like Ravindra Jadeja eager to capitalize. Jadeja, known for his sharp spin and quicker trajectory, began to threaten the outside edge of the bats, indicating potential struggles for New Zealand as the match progressed.
In the larger context of the series, Sundar’s twin scalps on the opening morning set the stage for an intriguing game, where spinners would likely play a decisive role. The day promised more drama as India eyed further cracks to seize control, while New Zealand was intent on consolidating and maneuvering through the spin trials of an already fascinating chess match of a Test.
Brief scores at the first break saw New Zealand at 92/3, with Young standing tall at 38* while Sundar registered figures of 2-26, encapsulating a gripping first morning in Mumbai. With both teams sensing opportunities, the next sessions were poised to define the unfolding narratives of this riveting contest.