What To Expect from Day 1 Of IND vs NZ 3rd Test In Mumbai?

Jatin

Team India has already lost the series [Source: @BCCI/x.com]Team India has already lost the series [Source: @BCCI/x.com]

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India and New Zealand are set to take on each other in the third and final Test in Mumbai starting Friday, November 1 as Wankhede’s pitch prepares to tell its own story. With the series already in New Zealand’s pocket, pride, reputation, and World Test Championship hopes are at stake for India.

The hosts are staring down the barrel in this must-win game, and their road to the WTC final is now littered with challenges. Day 1 of the IND vs NZ 3rd Test promises a thrilling clash where every session will shape the game’s direction.

Let’s take a look at what to expect from Day 1 of the IND vs NZ 3rd Test in Mumbai.

A Little Rain and a Lot of Waiting

Day 1’s weather forecast isn’t too promising. Looks like we’re in for a clear start, but by afternoon, it could be a classic game of dodge-the-showers. The players will likely get a smooth first session, but come 2 PM, thunderstorms could be ready to crash the party.

If the rain does roll in, we’re looking at stop-start cricket, which could mess with everyone’s momentum. Either way, that first session’s going to be key for both sides. India will be hoping to make the most of the early hours when the weather is cooperative, for once rain plays spoilsport, momentum can become a fleeting mirage.

Turning Track and Pacers' Paradise

Wankhede Stadium’s red soil is notorious for its ability to aid both spin and bounce, and it’s expected to offer a 'two-faced pitch' that could bring joy to both pacers and spinners. Early morning moisture might give seamers a brief chance to swing the ball, making those opening overs a likely challenge.

But once the sun’s out and the track starts drying, it’s bound to become a spinner’s dream, and they will be itching to work their magic.

Will History Repeat Itself?

If you’re a fan, you would probably remember Ajaz Patel’s mind-blowing 10-wicket haul three years ago at this very stadium. But New Zealand’s not looking like easy prey this time as their batsmen have handled spin well, even turning the tables on India a few times this series.

Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra have shown that they know their way around spin, and they’ll be looking to frustrate India’s bowlers. However, one wrong move and the Kiwis could find themselves in deep trouble against the Indian spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar, who will be hunting for every possible opportunity.

Pressure on India’s Big Guns: Time to Step Up or Step Aside

Indian stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have had an abysmal series, and it’s high time they remind everyone what they’re made of. The pressure’s immense; Rohit’s got to curb his impulsive shots, and Kohli needs to pull off one of his classic, vintage innings.

Both players are capable of turning the game on its head, but this is no time for risks. A steady head and a sound technique will be their best allies. Notably, the first session could see the celebrated duo sticking to a conservative approach but as the game progresses, it wouldn’t be a surprise if one of them takes the bull by the horns to regain control.

Crucial Toss to Win

With Wankhede’s history favouring teams batting first, the toss might be the golden ticket to getting a leg up in this clash. Out of 26 Tests played here, 11 have seen the side batting first emerge victorious.

But there’s a catch: the morning session’s swing and bounce might tempt the winning captain to bowl as they will hope to exploit the early swing and disrupt the opponent’s momentum.

Expect a Cliffhanger Start

Both teams know the gravity of Day 1. India’s in a tight spot – lose this one, and it’s not just a series defeat but a question of pride, character, and bouncing back.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s got their mojo going; they’ve stunned India twice already and would love nothing more than a clean sweep. But here’s the twist: Wankhede has this way of turning games on their head. A little mistake or one special session from the hosts, and things could change before you know it.

Day 1 at Wankhede? It’s about survival, strategy, and seizing every chance. Both teams will need to come in with clear heads and fire in their bellies because once the game starts rolling, every single ball is going to count.