India’s remarkable home dominance in Test cricket has been shattered by New Zealand, who are on the verge of inflicting a series whitewash on the hosts. This would mark the first time in over two decades that India has suffered a clean sweep at home.
Since their last home series loss to South Africa in 2000, India has maintained an unblemished record, winning 18 consecutive series and going unbeaten for 12 years. However, New Zealand’s emphatic victories in the first two Tests have put India’s proud home record in jeopardy.
The last time India was whitewashed in a Test series, home or away, was also against New Zealand in 2020. Since the 2000 home clean sweep by South Africa, India has endured four more series whitewashes, all away from home.
South Africa’s 2000 Home Whitewash of India
In February 2000, South Africa became the last team to whitewash India at home. Led by Hansie Cronje, the Proteas won the two-match series convincingly.
In the first Test at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India was bowled out for 225 despite Sachin Tendulkar’s 97. South Africa responded with 176, giving India a slender 49-run lead. However, India’s second innings collapsed to 113, setting South Africa a modest target of 163. The visitors chased down the target with four wickets in hand.
In the second Test in Bengaluru, India was again dismissed for a low score of 158. South Africa then piled up 479, with five half-centuries. India’s second innings was more competitive, with Mohammad Azharuddin scoring a century. However, South Africa’s spinners proved too strong, and India was bowled out for 250, losing by an innings and 71 runs.
New Zealand’s Chance to Repeat History
New Zealand has a golden opportunity to repeat South Africa’s feat and become the first team to whitewash India at home since 2000. After winning the first two Tests by comfortable margins, the Black Caps need only a draw in the third and final Test to secure the series.
If New Zealand can complete the whitewash, it will be a significant achievement and a testament to their growing dominance in Test cricket. For India, it will be a bitter pill to swallow, as they will lose their long-held home invincibility.
