Sat Nov 02 20:30:33 UTC 2024: ## India Stumbles in Mumbai, New Zealand on Cusp of Clean Sweep

**MUMBAI, INDIA** – New Zealand is poised to complete a clean sweep of the three-match test series against India after dominating day two of the third test at the Wankhede Stadium.

The Kiwis, already 2-0 up in the series, finished day two with a commanding 143-run lead after bowling out India for 263 runs in their first innings. The visitors then reached 171 for 9 wickets in 43.3 overs, leaving them well-placed to enforce a follow-on.

**India’s Collapse**

India’s innings started promisingly with Shubman Gill scoring 90 runs, and a quickfire 60 from Rishabh Pant. However, the Indian middle order faltered once again, collapsing from 145 for 2 to 180 for 5 in a matter of minutes.

Ajaz Patel was the standout performer for New Zealand, taking 5 wickets and exposing India’s weakness against spin bowling.

**New Zealand’s Resilience**

In reply, Will Young top-scored with 51 runs for New Zealand. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the Kiwis remained steadfast, thanks to the gritty performances of the lower order, including a crucial 26 from Glenn Phillips.

**Key Takeaways**

* India’s poor form against spin bowling continues to haunt them.
* Ajaz Patel has emerged as a potent weapon for New Zealand in Indian conditions.
* A clean sweep for New Zealand would be a significant blow to India’s World Test Championship ambitions.

**The third day promises to be crucial as New Zealand looks to cement its victory and India desperately tries to salvage some pride in the series.**

Read More