Vikrant Shekhawat : Oct 30, 2024, 07:00 AM
IND vs NZ: The third Test match between India and New Zealand will be played on November 1 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. After losing the first two matches of the series, this match has become very important for the Indian team, as now they have to win this match to avoid a clean sweep. The defeat in both the initial matches has raised questions on the performance of Team India, and now it will be interesting to see whether the Indian players will be able to make a strong comeback in the face of this challenge.India's great record in MumbaiMumbai's Wankhede Stadium has been a special ground for the Indian team. Out of the total 26 Test matches played here, India has won 12 matches, while they have faced defeat in 7 matches. The remaining 7 matches have been drawn. These figures show that the Indian team has always dominated the Mumbai ground, and this time too there are expectations from the team in front of the home audience.Historical win-loss against New Zealand in MumbaiIndia has played three Test matches against New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium so far, winning two and losing one. New Zealand last defeated India at Mumbai ground in 1988 by 136 runs. In that match, Kiwi team player John Bracewell performed brilliantly, taking a total of 8 wickets and scoring 84 runs. Since then, the Indian team has remained undefeated against New Zealand in Mumbai. Due to this record, Indian fans are confident that the team will win against New Zealand this time too.Lost Test series on home ground after 12 yearsThe performance of the Indian team's batsmen has been disappointing in the first two Test matches. In the first match, the Indian team was all out for just 46 runs, due to which they had to face defeat by 8 wickets. The situation did not improve in the second match as well, and India lost by 113 runs. This defeat is also special because India has lost the Test series on home ground after 12 years. Earlier, India had lost the home series against England in 2012.Possible changes and challenges in the third TestTeam India will now have to improve its batting order, especially the top order will have to show a strong performance. The pitch of Mumbai is also favorable for spinners, so better performance will be expected from the Indian bowlers. This match will be important for the captain and coach in terms of strategy, because establishing the right combination and balance is necessary for victory.Indian cricket fans hope that Team India will be able to avoid a clean sweep by winning this match in Mumbai and will make a confident comeback.