The second day of the third Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium unfolded as a captivating seesaw battle, with both teams vying for control. Ravindra Jadeja emerged as India's hero, claiming four crucial wickets to keep the hosts in the contest, despite a challenging start to the day.
New Zealand, resuming their innings, saw openers Daryl Mitchell and Will Young build a solid foundation, frustrating the Indian bowlers. They extended their partnership beyond 50 runs lead. However, Jadeja's introduction into the attack proved to be a turning point.
He struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Mitchell with a brilliant catch by Ravichandran Ashwin, followed by the wicket of Tom Blundell. This double blow shifted the momentum in India's favor, putting the brakes on New Zealand's progress.
Earlier in the day, India's batting had faltered, with Ajaz Patel claiming a five-wicket haul to dismiss the hosts for 263, a lead of just 28 runs. Shubman Gill looked set for a century but fell agonizingly short on 90, while Washington Sundar provided some late resistance with an unbeaten 38.
The first session had belonged to India, with Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill both scoring quickfire fifties. Their aggressive partnership put pressure on the New Zealand bowlers and briefly raised hopes of a substantial lead. However, the introduction of Ish Sodhi after the drinks break slowed India's progress, and wickets began to tumble.
Despite the setbacks, Jadeja's heroics with the ball have kept India in the game. At stumps on Day 2, New Zealand were 171/9, leading by 143 runs. The final wicket will be crucial for India, as they aim to restrict New Zealand's lead and set up a manageable chase on a pitch that is expected to deteriorate further.
