New Zealand posted a total of 235 in their first innings against India, powered by Daryl Mitchell’s gritty 82 and Will Young’s solid 71. Ravindra Jadeja’s relentless accuracy and Washington Sundar’s smart variations shone through, as they spun New Zealand out on a day marked by searing heat and challenging conditions.
Jadeja and Washington Spin New Zealand Out
Jadeja’s fitness was on full display as he bowled five consecutive overs to wrap up his 14th five-wicket haul in Tests, finishing with figures of 5-65. Washington provided key breakthroughs as well, claiming 4-81, as the two spinners made the most of a turning Mumbai track. Notably, Daryl Mitchell, with a late burst after tea, hit three sixes off Washington’s bowling to lift New Zealand to a competitive total despite the absence of their regular spinner Mitchell Santner, who had troubled India in the previous Test.
The high humidity, combined with temperatures reaching 37°C, put both teams under pressure, with frequent drinks breaks and iced towels brought on to keep players cool. Mitchell, battling cramps, went into the tea break unbeaten, determined to stretch New Zealand’s innings. However, post-tea, he eventually fell to a miscued shot at slip after his resilient knock helped set a respectable target.
India’s bowlers worked in pairs throughout the day, striking just when New Zealand seemed to settle. Washington removed Tom Latham and Rachin Ravindra before lunch, while Jadeja dismissed Young and Tom Blundell in one over just before tea, disrupting a strong partnership. Young played fluently, scoring his first series fifty and showcasing his comfort against India’s spinners. However, Jadeja’s consistency ultimately broke his resolve as he was caught at slip.
Despite missing Jasprit Bumrah due to illness, India’s bowling attack held New Zealand in check. Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj gave solid starts, while Washington and Jadeja’s control and precision ensured India contained New Zealand to 235.
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