Sun Nov 03 02:18:16 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Spinner Warns of Tougher Batting on Day 3 in Mumbai
**Mumbai, India:** New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel has warned India that batting will become considerably more difficult on the third day of the final Test match in Mumbai. Patel, who claimed 5 wickets in India’s first innings, believes the pitch will continue to deteriorate and offer more turn, making life difficult for batsmen.
“The ball is turning from both sides of the pitch,” Patel said. “It’s inconsistent in terms of how much it does turn and bounce, but as a spinner it’s encouraging as well that you’re going to get something out of the surface and for batting it’s quite challenging.”
New Zealand currently holds a 143-run lead after losing 8 wickets to the Indian spinners on Day 2. However, the team is aiming to extend that lead past 150 runs on Day 3, knowing that the highest ever chase in Mumbai is only 163 runs.
Despite the challenging pitch, Indian batsmen Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill impressed with their knocks, keeping India ahead in terms of runs in the first innings. Patel acknowledged Pant’s exceptional performance, highlighting his ability to put pressure back on the New Zealand team.
“I felt like I bowled really well but Rishabh batted exceptionally,” Patel said. “He’s been phenomenal throughout this tour and he’s kind of the player that’s put pressure back on us, regardless of the situation.”
The third day of the final Test match promises an exciting battle as India looks to chase down the target while New Zealand aims to hold their advantage and secure a series win.
First Piper 