Sat Nov 02 10:44:45 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Aim to Complete India Clean Sweep in Mumbai Test
**Mumbai, India:** New Zealand, looking to complete a historic series sweep, won the toss and opted to bat first in the third and final Test against India at the Wankhede Stadium on Friday. The Black Caps, who have already secured a maiden series win in India, made two changes to their team with Ish Sodhi replacing Mitchell Santner due to a side strain and Matt Henry returning in place of Tim Southee.
“It’s a reasonably good surface and we want to put runs on the board and put pressure later,” said New Zealand captain Tom Latham.
India, meanwhile, brought in seamer Mohammed Siraj for the unwell Jasprit Bumrah. Skipper Rohit Sharma echoed Latham’s sentiments about wanting to bat first, acknowledging the team’s subpar performance in the series. “We would have batted first too,” said Sharma, “We accept that we haven’t played well this series, but this is an opportunity to correct that.”
The match marks the continuation of a successful tour for New Zealand, who claimed convincing wins in both the first and second Test. This series win was their first in India since 1955 and also ended India’s 18-match home series winning streak dating back to 2012.
Kane Williamson remains absent for New Zealand as he recovers from a groin strain ahead of their upcoming series against England. India, on the other hand, will be looking to salvage some pride with a win before embarking on a five-match tour of Australia.
First Piper 