India found themselves in a precarious position, trailing by 149 runs after being bowled out for just 86-4 in response to New Zealand’s 235 on a tumultuous first day of the third Test against New Zealand.
According to details, the drama unfolded at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, where the spinners, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, led the charge for the visitors, with Jadeja taking 5-65 and Sundar claiming four wickets.
India began the day strongly, cruising to 78-1, but a sudden collapse saw them lose three quick wickets, including the prized scalp of Virat Kohli, who was run out for a mere four runs. Kohli's reckless single, following a direct hit from Matt Henry, marked a pivotal moment in the match, causing chaos for the Indian side.
Despite a promising start, with Shubman Gill contributing 31 and Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring 30, India's batting lineup faltered under pressure. Jadeja's and Sundar's exceptional bowling performances ensured that New Zealand maintained control, wrapping up their innings within 65.4 overs.
New Zealand's top-order batsman Daryl Mitchell was the standout performer, scoring 82 runs, while Will Young added 71. The duo built a solid partnership of 87 runs for the fourth wicket, helping set a challenging target for India.
As they look ahead to day two, Indian players, including Jadeja, emphasized the need to build partnerships and not let individual errors derail their chances. With Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant at the crease, India will need a strong comeback to stay competitive in the match.
