After dominant performances by New Zealand in the first two Tests, the third and final encounter between India and New Zealand at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium will see both teams battling not just for the series but for pride, reputation, and a chance to build momentum.
With the match set to begin tomorrow at 9:30 AM IST (November 1), Indian fans will be eager to see their team bounce back after the setbacks in Bengaluru and Pune.
The Indian squad, led by Rohit Sharma, will be looking to end this series on a high note. A win here would boost morale ahead of the Australian tour and give India much-needed momentum as they aim for a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. With New Zealand exceeding expectations and outperforming India across the board, the pressure is on the hosts to deliver at the Wankhede Stadium.
New Zealand’s journey through this series has been one of resilience and grit. Regarded as underdogs, entering into the series, the Kiwis stunned India in the opening Test in Bengaluru, where their all-around effort earned them an eight-wicket victory. They followed that up with another commanding performance in Pune, sealing the series with their second consecutive win. Tom Latham’s squad has showcased depth and discipline, proving that they are not to be underestimated in any condition.
With the race for a WTC final berth intensifying, India need this victory to ease the pressure. A loss here would make the path tougher for India, forcing them to aim for at least four victories on their upcoming Australian tour. Currently, India lead the WTC standings with a win percentage of 62.82, while New Zealand, the 2021 champions, sit fourth at 50.00%. For India to retain their top spot, a win in this final Test is crucial, while New Zealand could potentially rise to third with a win.
Individual performances will be key in this clash. Virat Kohli, who has tallied 469 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 58.62, will be critical to India’s batting. Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin, with 38 wickets at this venue, will look to wield his magic once again on the Wankhede pitch, which often favours spin. Kohli and Ashwin’s experience and skill will be pivotal if India is to overcome the Kiwi challenge.
Head-to-Head:
Historically, India and New Zealand have faced off in 64 Tests, with India winning 22 and New Zealand claiming 15 victories. India have played 26 Tests at Wankhede, recording 12 wins and seven losses, with the rest drawn. New Zealand’s Wankhede record includes a memorable victory in 1988 but also defeats in 1976 and 2021—the latter marked by Ajaz Patel’s historic achievement of taking all 10 wickets in an innings, making him only the third bowler in Test history to reach that milestone.
With everything to play for, the Wankhede Test promises high-stakes action as India seek redemption and New Zealand look to cap off the series with an undefeated record. Both teams have shown determination, and fans can expect an intense final chapter to an unforgettable series.
Where to Watch:
TV: Sports18
OTT: JioCinema
