India and New Zealand face off in the third and final Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. After losing the first two Tests and the series, India hope to salvage some dignity and keep their hopes of the World Test Championship final qualification alive. Jadeja's three quick wickets have put the visitors in a tough spot as they reach 192/6 at the tea break. With India missing the services of Jasprit Bumrah, they will rely on a strong performance from their remaining bowlers while New Zealand will look to maintain their dominance and enforce a whitewash. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will also be hoping to get back the form ahead of the upcoming tour of Australia.
India vs. New Zealand Test Series: India Aims to Salvage Dignity in Final Match
India and New Zealand are set to face off in the third and final Test match of the series at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. After suffering consecutive defeats in the first two Tests, India's hopes of qualifying for the World Test Championship final are hanging by a thread.
Background
The two-match Test series is part of the inaugural World Test Championship, a league-based competition that sees the world's top nine Test nations compete for a place in the final. After losing the first Test in Kanpur by ten wickets, India suffered another crushing defeat in Mumbai by 372 runs.
Current Situation
With the series already lost, India will be desperate to salvage some pride and keep their hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final alive. New Zealand, on the other hand, will be aiming to complete a whitewash and extend their dominance over India.
On the third day of the third Test, New Zealand are in a strong position at the tea break, reaching 192/6 thanks to a century from Devon Conway. India's bowlers have struggled to make an impact, with Ravindra Jadeja's three quick wickets being the only bright spot.
Key Players
Rohit Sharma (India): The India captain has had a disappointing series with the bat, scoring just 38 runs in three innings. He will be hoping to find some form ahead of the upcoming tour of Australia.
Virat Kohli (India): India's former captain has also struggled for runs in the series, with just 54 runs to his name. He will be keen to prove his class and help India avoid a series whitewash.
Devon Conway (New Zealand): The Kiwi opener has been in excellent form throughout the series, scoring a century in both Tests. He will be looking to continue his fine run in Mumbai and help New Zealand secure a clean sweep.
Tim Southee (New Zealand): The New Zealand captain has led by example with the ball, taking seven wickets in the series so far. He will be hoping to continue his good form and wrap up the series victory for his team.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the World Test Championship? The World Test Championship is a league-based competition that sees the world's top nine Test nations compete for a place in the final.
2. What are India's chances of reaching the World Test Championship final? India's chances are slim after losing the first two Tests against New Zealand. They need to win the third Test and hope other results go their way.
3. Who is leading the World Test Championship standings? Australia is currently leading the World Test Championship standings with 75.56% of points.
4. Why is Jasprit Bumrah not playing in the third Test? Bumrah has been ruled out of the third Test due to a back injury.
5. What is the record between India and New Zealand in Test matches? India has played 63 Test matches against New Zealand, winning 33, losing 19, and drawing 11.
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