The pitch's behavior on the third day will determine the outcome of the final Test between New Zealand and India, according to spinner Ajaz Patel. Despite a small target, Patel believes the inconsistency of the pitch will make it challenging for batters. With a lead in excess of 150 unlikely, Patel and the Kiwis will have to rely on their spinners to restrict India in order to secure a historic whitewash victory on Indian soil.
Ajaz Patel Predicts Challenging Conditions in Crucial India vs. New Zealand Test
New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel has expressed his belief that the unpredictable behavior of the pitch at the Holkar Stadium in Indore will play a decisive role in the outcome of the third and final Test match between India and New Zealand.
Background:
The two teams are currently locked at 1-1 in the series, with India winning the first Test in Kanpur and New Zealand triumphing in the second Test in Mumbai. The third Test will commence on January 26 and could potentially determine the series victor.
Patel's Assessment:
Patel, who has taken 44 wickets in 12 Tests for New Zealand, believes that the pitch in Indore will provide a significant challenge for batters due to its inconsistency. He said, "The pitch's behavior on the third day will determine the outcome of the Test. It's a very challenging surface, and it makes it difficult for batters to score runs consistently."
Despite India setting a relatively modest target of 197 for New Zealand in the previous Test, Patel believes that the fickle nature of the pitch will make it difficult for batters to chase down even that total.
Kiwis' Strategy:
With a lead of 150 runs unlikely, Patel and the rest of the New Zealand team will need to rely heavily on their spinners to restrict India's batsmen. Patel, along with Mitchell Santner and Will Somerville, will be key in bowling tight spells and preventing the Indian batters from building large partnerships.
Top 5 FAQs:
Why is Ajaz Patel predicting a challenging pitch for the final Test? Answer: Patel believes that the pitch at the Holkar Stadium in Indore is inconsistent and will make it difficult for batters to score runs consistently.
Is India's target of 197 for New Zealand in the previous Test likely to be difficult to chase down? Answer: Yes, Patel believes that the inconsistent pitch will make it challenging for batters to chase down even that relatively modest target.
What will be New Zealand's strategy for the final Test? Answer: The Kiwis will rely heavily on their spinners to restrict India's batsmen and prevent them from building large partnerships.
What impact has Ajaz Patel had on New Zealand's bowling unit? Answer: Patel has been an integral part of New Zealand's bowling unit, taking 44 wickets in 12 Tests. His left-arm spin has been particularly effective in creating pressure on opposing batsmen.
What is the historical significance of this Test series for New Zealand? Answer: A victory for New Zealand in the final Test would secure a historic whitewash victory on Indian soil, a feat that no other country has achieved.
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