India’s dominance at home in Test cricket took a hit after poor performances in the first two matches against New Zealand. With a 12-year winning streak at home and 18 consecutive home series victories now broken, India faces a crucial final Test match against the Kiwis. After losses in Bengaluru and Pune, India is now down 2-0 in the series, and this upcoming match is pivotal, particularly for the World Test Championship (WTC) standings.
In the second Test at Pune, despite India offering a spin-friendly track, New Zealand’s veteran spinner Mitchell Santner stole the show, taking seven wickets and leading his team to victory. India’s batting lineup crumbled in both innings, with Santner continuing to trouble the hosts in the second innings, leading to a crushing 113-run defeat.
Now, all eyes are on the third and final Test, where Rohit Sharma’s team must step up to avoid a clean sweep and maintain their standing at the top of the WTC table. India needs to win this match to retain their position and secure crucial points.
India’s Next Match:
India will play their final Test match against New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, from November 1 to November 5, 2024, starting at 9:30 AM IST. Fans can watch the match live on Jio Cinema or on the Sports18 network.
Can India Still Qualify for the WTC Final in 2025?
India must secure four wins from their remaining six Test matches to ensure direct qualification for the WTC final without relying on other teams’ results. After this Test against New Zealand, India will face a tougher challenge in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a five-match Test series against Australia.
India’s performance in this final Test will be crucial not only for salvaging pride but also for their WTC campaign.