Ajaz Stars Again at Wankhede as New Zealand Seal Historic Whitewash

In a remarkable display, Ajaz Patel's exceptional bowling performance of 6 for 57 guided New Zealand to a 25-run victory over India on the third day of the final Test in Mumbai, completing a historic 3-0 series whitewash. This series marks the first instance of India being whitewashed at home in a three-match or longer format.

Beginning the second session with 55 runs still needed and four wickets remaining, India’s hopes rested heavily on Rishabh Pant (64), whose aggressive batting kept the chase alive. However, Ajaz Patel quickly derailed those hopes by claiming Pant's wicket in a highly controversial decision. Initially ruled not out by on-field umpire Richard Illingworth, Pant was eventually dismissed after a DRS review revealed a faint edge, though it was unclear whether it was from the bat or pad. The decision stirred discontent, particularly for Pant, as the on-field call typically stands in such uncertain scenarios, but third umpire Paul Reiffel chose to overturn it, leading to shock and frustration from the Indian camp.

Following Pant's dismissal, India’s chances of chasing down the target diminished significantly, even as Washington Sundar and Ravichandran Ashwin remained at the crease. The pitch's deteriorating nature, coupled with India’s lack of assertiveness, placed immense pressure on the remaining batsmen. Sundar and Ashwin showed some resilience but could not build a substantial partnership. Ashwin’s attempt at a reverse sweep off Glenn Phillips resulted in his dismissal, while Patel swiftly removed Akash Deep for a duck, hastening India's collapse. The match concluded fittingly with Patel claiming the final wicket as Sundar misplayed a slog sweep.

Among the three victories New Zealand secured during the series, this match arguably posed the toughest challenge. Winning the toss was advantageous for the visitors, who initially found batting manageable during the first morning session. However, the pitch conditions quickly deteriorated, and the match concluded in just two and a half days, with a staggering 14 wickets falling on the first day and 15 on the second. By lunchtime on the third day, all remaining wickets had fallen, underscoring the challenges presented by the surface.

Credit must be given to New Zealand for achieving a respectable first innings total, largely due to contributions from Daryl Mitchell (82) and Will Young (71). Despite struggles from other batters, their partnerships kept New Zealand afloat, while Ravindra Jadeja (5-65) and Washington Sundar (4-81) capitalized on the conditions after a shaky start. Although New Zealand was poised at 159/3, they were ultimately bowled out for 235.

India had a crucial opportunity to build a significant lead, but despite the challenging conditions, only Shubman Gill (90) and Pant (60) managed to effectively counter the spin threat posed by Ajaz Patel. While they had India positioned comfortably at 180/4, a sudden collapse ensued. Had it not been for Washington Sundar's late contribution of 38 runs, India might not have secured a lead at all.

In the end, India’s lead of just 28 runs proved insufficient to stifle New Zealand’s momentum. India bowled well in the second innings, with Jadeja again claiming a five-wicket haul and Ashwin finding form with three wickets, restricting New Zealand to 174 and setting up a target of 147. Such a modest target often creates chaos for the chasing team, particularly on a pitch as challenging as this one.

Needing a solid start to build confidence, India faltered quickly, losing five wickets for just 29 runs within the first seven overs. Pant’s valiant effort, highlighted by his second fifty of the match, almost single-handedly kept India in contention, showcasing his skill and intent amidst the turmoil. However, without adequate support and facing the crumbling pitch, his dismissal proved critical, allowing New Zealand to claim a historic victory in what will be remembered as a landmark month for New Zealand cricket.