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The second Test match between India and New Zealand in Mumbai saw a gripping display of spin bowling as Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar combined to dismantle the New Zealand batting lineup, bowling them out for a respectable 235 runs. Despite a late fightback by Daryl Mitchell, who slammed three sixes in a quickfire 45 minutes, India’s spinners were relentless, extracting valuable wickets and ensuring a competitive total for the hosts to chase.
Jadeja, the seasoned all-rounder, once again showcased his prowess with the ball, picking up his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. He bowled with relentless accuracy and pace, turning the ball sharply and consistently keeping the batters guessing. His ability to maintain a consistent line and length was crucial in keeping the Kiwis on the back foot throughout the innings. Washington, on the other hand, provided valuable support, showcasing his own impressive spin bowling skills, claiming four wickets and playing a crucial role in restricting New Zealand’s scoring rate.
The match witnessed the relentless heat and humidity of Mumbai taking its toll on the players. Both teams struggled to cope with the conditions, with drinks being taken almost every three overs and iced towels and ice packs being used liberally. Mitchell, in particular, found it difficult to maintain his energy levels in the scorching heat. Despite the challenging conditions, he managed to rally and launch a late counter-attack, providing some much-needed impetus to the New Zealand innings.
However, India’s spin duo proved to be too much for the New Zealand batters to handle. Jadeja and Washington exploited the variable bounce and turn on the pitch, keeping the Kiwis under constant pressure and forcing them to play defensively. Their accuracy and consistency were evident throughout the day, as they maintained their composure and delivered their overs with precision. The New Zealand batters struggled to adapt to the spinners' tactics, resulting in a series of wickets that fell throughout the innings.