New Zealand Creates History with 3-0 Test Series Whitewash Against India
A Landmark Achievement in Test Cricket
New Zealand’s cricket team has pulled off a stunning feat, becoming the first team in over 100 years to whitewash India in a three-match Test series on their home soil. With this 3-0 victory, New Zealand joins England, Australia, and the West Indies as the only teams to win a Test series of three or more matches in India. It’s a historic achievement that cements their place in cricket history.
The Third Test: A Thriller to Remember
The final Test match went down to the wire. New Zealand edged past India by just 25 runs in a nail-biting finish. Batting first, the Kiwis posted 235 runs, thanks to Daryl Mitchell’s 82 and Will Young’s 71. In reply, India scored 263, with Shubman Gill’s 90 and Rishabh Pant’s 60 leading the charge. However, Ajaz Patel’s 5/103 restricted India from building a large lead.
In their second innings, New Zealand managed 173, with Will Young again scoring a vital 51. Ravindra Jadeja tried to turn the game around with 5/55, leaving India a target of 146. But the Indian top order collapsed early, falling to 29/5. Although Pant fought back with a gritty 64, Ajaz Patel’s spell of 6/57 ended India’s hopes.
Ajaz Patel Shines as the Series Hero
Once again, Ajaz Patel proved to be India’s biggest challenge. At the same venue where he famously took 10 wickets in a single innings, he bagged 11 wickets in this Test. His control, spin, and persistence throughout the series made him the clear Player of the Series. Without a doubt, his efforts were the backbone of New Zealand’s success.
Pant’s Brave Resistance Falls Short
India’s final innings began with disaster. Within ten overs, half the side was back in the pavilion. Pant counterattacked, scoring 64 off just 57 balls. However, a sharp review led to his dismissal, and from there, the tail quickly folded. Glenn Phillips and Patel cleaned up the rest, sealing the win for New Zealand.
Mitchell on the Team’s Incredible Effort
After the match, Daryl Mitchell expressed his joy and pride.
“It’s seriously special to win a Test match here, and to do it against a world-class Indian team is incredible,” he said.
“We’re just a bunch of Kiwis taking on the world and representing our country. I’m mighty proud of the group.”
The Historic Significance of the Series Win
This series will be remembered for its historical importance. India had never been whitewashed in a home Test series of three matches or more. New Zealand not only broke that record but did so with grit and determination. Their dominance in spin-friendly conditions shows how far the team has come.
Final Thoughts: New Zealand’s Statement to the World
With this win, New Zealand has made a bold statement in world cricket. They’ve shown they can dominate even in the toughest conditions. This 3-0 whitewash will be remembered as one of their greatest ever Test triumphs — and a warning to every team visiting India.
