Sun Nov 03 09:24:19 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Aims for Big Lead, India Looks for Quick Finish in Mumbai Test
**Mumbai, India:** The third Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium is heating up with New Zealand currently holding a commanding lead. With the Kiwi batsmen looking to extend their advantage, and India hoping for a quick finish, the final day promises a thrilling encounter.
New Zealand, currently at 171/9 with a 143-run lead, is looking to put as many runs on the board as possible before India takes to the crease. Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel, who shone with the ball, expressed his plan to stay at the crease as long as possible, hoping to exploit the drying pitch and its potential for spin.
“Whether it’s due to the rolling or the heat, it’ll be interesting to see how the wicket plays tomorrow morning. If it’s not doing as much, we’ll try to bat as long as possible so we can wait for it to dry out and start turning again,” said Patel.
On the opposite side, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is aiming for a swift conclusion to the innings, hoping to limit the Kiwi’s lead before India embarks on the chase.
“Hopefully, not many [runs]. We should wrap it up with one or two runs here and there. Any runs saved in this innings will be critical for us when we chase it down,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin also acknowledged the need for a strong batting performance from India to avoid a series whitewash. “It’s not going to be easy, we’ll have to bat really well. I expected more bounce and speed from this Mumbai pitch. It’s been quite slow, which is a surprise for me. Not a typical Bombay pitch, but much slower than usual,” he added.
The final day of the third Test promises a nail-biting finish with both teams strategizing to achieve their desired outcome. Will New Zealand push their lead further, or will India secure a dramatic victory? Only time will tell.
First Piper 