October 31, 2024: Ahead of the crucial third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasized that the team’s skill against spin remains intact, despite being 0-2 down in the series. This match at Wankhede Stadium is crucial for India as they seek to salvage pride after suffering their first home series loss in 12 years.
In a pre-match press conference, Gambhir acknowledged New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner’s exceptional performance in the previous Tests, noting that he is currently the series’ highest wicket-taker with 13 wickets at an average of 12.08. Gambhir praised Santner but affirmed that the Indian team is working hard to improve and that results are key in international cricket.
India’s struggles in the first two Tests were evident; they managed just 156 runs in their first innings in the second Test, while Santner claimed 7/53. New Zealand’s consistent batting, highlighted by Devon Conway’s 76 and Tom Latham’s 86, allowed them to secure a 114-run victory, clinching the series 2-0 after winning the first Test by eight wickets.
With the squad featuring players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, India aims to put up a strong fight and avoid a whitewash in the final match. The stakes are high as they prepare to face a formidable New Zealand side.
