New Zealand has etched its name in cricket history by becoming the first team to inflict a humiliating 3-0 whitewash on India on home soil. The Kiwis’ triumph at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday marked a watershed moment in the annals of Test cricket.
This unprecedented victory is a testament to New Zealand’s unwavering determination and tactical brilliance. It is the first time the Black Caps have ever won three Tests in a series, both home and away. Moreover, it is the first time they have triumphed in three consecutive away Tests.
The whitewash is a bitter pill for India to swallow, as it is the first time they have been swept aside in a home series of three or more Tests. New Zealand joins an elite group of teams, including England, Australia, and the West Indies, to have whitewashed India in a series of three or more Tests.
Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel, who had previously taken ten wickets in an innings at the Wankhede Stadium, played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s victory. His five wickets in the first innings prevented India from gaining a substantial lead. Patel’s match-winning spell of 6/57 saw India collapse to a paltry 121 all out in just 29.1 overs.
In the post-match presentation, New Zealand captain Tom Latham expressed his elation. “We are ecstatic,” he said. “The boys have done a fantastic job over the last three Test matches. We are pretty happy. We just want to keep it simple here. We tried to be more proactive and guys chipped in. We are very happy to stand at this position.”
New Zealand’s dominance was evident throughout the series. They won the first Test in Bengaluru by 8 wickets and the second Test in Pune by 113 runs. Their victory in Mumbai was a fitting end to a remarkable tour.
