DE Online Desk:
The New Zealand cricket team has achieved a historic feat by becoming the first team to whitewash India in a three-match Test series on Indian soil. The Kiwis sealed the deal with a thrilling 25-run victory in the third and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday, November 3, 2024.
The last time India suffered a clean sweep at home was back in 2000, when South Africa won a two-match series. However, this marks the first instance of India losing all matches in a home series involving three or more Tests.
The writing was on the wall for India when they were set a target of just 147 runs in the fourth innings. Despite a valiant effort from wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who scored a fighting 64 off 57 balls, the Indian batting lineup crumbled under pressure. Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel was the wrecker-in-chief for New Zealand, claiming 6 wickets for 57 runs, taking his match tally to an impressive 10 wickets.
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“It’s a special feeling to be part of this historic moment,” said New Zealand captain Tom Latham after the match. “The boys put in a tremendous effort throughout the series, and to win 3-0 in India is a testament to the character and skill of this team.”
For India, it was a bitter pill to swallow, especially considering their formidable home record in recent years. Captain Rohit Sharma, who hails from Mumbai, would have been particularly disappointed with the result. The loss also dents India’s chances of making it to the final of the World Test Championship, with a challenging series against Australia looming on the horizon.
“We need to regroup quickly and learn from our mistakes,” said a visibly dejected Sharma in the post-match presentation. “Credit to New Zealand for outplaying us in all three matches. We have a lot of work to do before the Australia series.”
The cricket world has been left stunned by New Zealand’s achievement, with many experts and fans alike hailing the Kiwis’ resilience and skill. The victory not only cements New Zealand’s position as one of the top Test teams in the world but also serves as a reminder that no team, not even India, is invincible on their home turf.
As the dust settles on this historic series, both teams will now shift their focus to upcoming challenges. For New Zealand, it’s a moment to savor and build upon, while for India, it’s a wake-up call and an opportunity to reflect and come back stronger.
