Day 2 of the third Test match between India and New Zealand has been nothing short of thrilling, with spin bowlers dominating the proceedings. The ongoing series has witnessed a historic achievement as spinners from both teams have combined to break a 55-year-old record. So far, a total of 24 wickets have fallen to spin in the Mumbai Test, contributing to a remarkable series total of 71 wickets taken by spinners.
A Historic Spin Revolution
Currently, New Zealand is leading by 143 runs in their second innings, with only one wicket remaining. Chasing a challenging target of 150 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is proving to be a daunting task for Team India, heightening the tension on the field. The series has seen spinners exert their dominance, and the third Test continues this trend.
In a historical context, this series marks the first time in India that spinners have taken 70 or more wickets in a three-match Test series. The previous record, which stood for 55 years, was set in 1969 when spinners took 69 wickets in a series between India and New Zealand. Before that, a total of 66 wickets were claimed by spinners in the 1956 series between India and Australia.
Leading Wicket-Takers
Among the standout performers, Washington Sundar has been instrumental in this record-breaking feat. With 16 wickets across four innings in two matches, he currently leads the wicket-takers in the series. Following him is Ravindra Jadeja, who has claimed 15 wickets. New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner has also made his mark with 13 dismissals. Interestingly, veteran spinner R. Ashwin has only managed to take 9 wickets so far in this series, which is surprising given his track record.
As the series unfolds, the prowess of the spin bowlers continues to be a focal point, making for an exciting Test match that has cricket fans on the edge of their seats. With just one innings left for New Zealand and a tough target ahead for India, the coming days promise to deliver thrilling cricket action.
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