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The Battle at Wankhede and India’s Batting Woes
Day 1 Battle at Wankhede
As the sun rose over the Wankhede stadium, the cricketing world turned its attention to what promised to be a decisive chapter in ongoing test series between India and New Zealand.
This was not just another match; it was India’s last stand to avoid a historic series whitewash on home soil.
The toss and New Zealand’s Innings
New Zealand having won the toss and opted for bat first, perhaps banking on the early conditions at Wankhede, Their decision seemed justified as they navigated through the initial overs with caution.
However, the Indian bowling attack, led by the spin wizard Ravindra Jadeja and supported by emerging all-rounder Washington Sundar had other plans. Jadeja’s mastery with the ball was on full display, snagging five wickets, while Sundar chipped in with four, helping restrict New Zealand to 235.
This was commendable effort, considering New Zealand’s batting prowess in the series.
India’s Batting Woes
In response, India’s batting lineup, which had promised much, found itself early trouble. The top order, Including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, failed to capitalize, leading to a precarious 86/4 at stumps on day 1.
This collapse highlighted the New Zealand bowler’s strategy to exploit the conditions, with Ajaz Patel proving particularly troublesome.
Matt Henry's direct hit catches Virat Kohli short 😯#INDvNZ #IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/cL4RvUdMST
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) November 1, 2024
Day 2 and beyond
The narrative of days 2 and beyond would be crucial. With the likes of Jadeja and possibly Rishabh Pant at the crease, India had the firepower to mount a recovery.
The focus would be on how India’s middle and lower order could handle the pressure, potentially setting up a platform for a fightback stronger.
The Series Context
This test match wasn’t just about saving the face; it was about India’s standing in the World Test Championship. A loss here would not only mean a first home series defeat in a three match series since 2012 but also complicate their path to the next WTC final.
Conversely, New Zealand, already riding high on a potential series sweep, were looking to cement their standing as formidable side in the world cricket, capable of challenging anywhere.
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