New Zealand made history on Sunday by achieving a remarkable 3-0 series sweep against India, clinching victory by 25 runs in the final Test at Wankhede Stadium. This loss marked a significant milestone for India, as it was their first home Test series whitewash since falling 2-0 to South Africa in 2000.
The match unfolded on a challenging, spin-friendly pitch that proved to be India’s undoing. Chasing a modest target of 147 runs, the hosts crumbled to just 121 all out on day three. Ajaz Patel emerged as the standout performer, taking 6 wickets for 57 runs, and this marked his second five-wicket haul of the match, solidifying New Zealand’s historic win.
India’s batting lineup struggled under the pressure of the turning track, with Patel causing havoc from the outset. They found themselves in dire straits, slumping to 29 for 5 in their second innings. Although wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant fought valiantly, scoring 64 runs with nine boundaries and a six, it wasn’t enough to salvage the innings. The next highest score came from Washington Sundar, who managed just 12 not out, underscoring the team’s overall batting difficulties against New Zealand’s relentless spin bowling.
Patel, who had already claimed 5 wickets for 103 runs in the first innings, continued to lead the charge, supported by fellow spinners Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra, as the Black Caps secured a hard-fought and historic victory.
