On the opening day of the third Test between India and New Zealand in Mumbai, Sarfaraz Khan’s fiery send-off to Rachin Ravindra marked a significant moment. Ravindra, a key performer for New Zealand, had been instrumental in their victories in the previous two Tests.
During the first session, Washington Sundar’s delivery crashed into Ravindra’s stumps, leaving him bewildered. Sarfaraz, positioned at silly point, erupted in celebration and taunted Ravindra as he returned to the dressing room. Sundar’s delivery was a masterstroke, earning him Ravindra’s wicket for the third time in the series.
Spinner Washington Sundar continued to shine, claiming two wickets as New Zealand ended the first session at 92/3. Will Young (38*) and Daryl Mitchell (11*) remained unbeaten.
New Zealand’s innings began poorly, with Akash Deep dismissing Devon Conway for four runs. Skipper Tom Latham and Will Young steadied the ship, but Sundar dismissed Latham for 28. Ravindra’s dismissal for five runs further weakened New Zealand’s position.
Young and Mitchell guided New Zealand through the remainder of the session without further losses.
India, trailing 0-2 in the series, will be determined to avoid a whitewash in the final Test. Mohammed Siraj has replaced the unwell Jasprit Bumrah in the Indian lineup, while Matt Henry has come in for Tim Southee for New Zealand.
