Pune: In a captivating display of spin bowling on Thursday, Washington Sundar led Team India off the field after a sensational performance, dismissing New Zealand for a mere 259 runs in 79.1 overs. His remarkable figures of 7 wickets for 59 runs showcased a masterclass in drift and dip on a pitch that offered ample turn, silencing any lingering doubts about his inclusion in the squad.
New Zealand commenced with a promising start as Tim Southee sent Team India captain Rohit Sharma back to the pavilion for a duck, setting an early tone and placing the Indian batting lineup under pressure. The Kiwi bowlers, particularly the left-arm spinners, exploited the dry pitch, creating moments of uncertainty for the Indian batsmen. At 16/1, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill were at the crease, batting on 6 and 10, respectively.
Sundar’s performance was truly exceptional, marking a standout moment in the match. His ability to seize opportunities when it mattered most was evident, particularly in the way he dismantled Rachin Ravindra, who had been well set at 65. The flight and turn on his delivery that crashed into the stumps served as a testament to his bowling acumen.
What sets Sundar apart is his composure under pressure. His knack for initiating collapses by claiming key wickets at crucial moments significantly shifted the game's momentum in India’s favour. The dismissal of Tom Blundell just before tea further underscored his readiness to perform on the big stage.
At one point, New Zealand appeared to be in command, buoyed by solid contributions from Devon Conway and Ravindra, both of whom scored fifties. The visitors seemed to be cruising towards 200 runs with just three wickets lost when Sundar was introduced for a brief spell before tea. In a remarkable turnaround, he triggered a collapse by claiming the key wicket of Ravindra, who had anchored New Zealand’s innings.
The left-handed batsman fell victim to a superbly flighted delivery that turned sharply, disturbing the stumps and dramatically shifting the game's momentum.
But Sundar wasn’t finished there. With only a few overs left before the break, he landed a critical blow by removing wicketkeeper Blundell for just 3 runs. A tantalising delivery, laden with flight and dip, lured Blundell into a tentative shot, leaving him stranded and the Indian fielders jubilant. Sundar’s double blow before tea brought India roaring back into contention.
Earlier in the innings, Conway, in sublime touch, crafted a fine 76 before a deft piece of bowling from Ravichandran Ashwin saw him edge behind to Rishabh Pant. His dismissal at 138/3 provided India with the breakthrough they desperately needed. Ashwin, a constant thorn in New Zealand's side, claimed three crucial wickets, including that of Will Young (24) and Tom Latham (15), leaving the visitors shaken after their confident start.
As the players made their way to tea, New Zealand found themselves struggling, with Daryl Mitchell cautiously holding the fort at an unbeaten 16 runs off 49 balls. However, the narrative shifted dramatically after the break, as Sundar continued his relentless assault. He swiftly claimed the wickets of Mitchell for 18, Glenn Phillips for 9, and Tim Southee for 5.
Sundar then added Ajaz Patel (4) and Mitchell Santner (33) to his growing tally, leaving the New Zealand batting line-up in tatters and sealing his remarkable performance.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 259 (Devon Conway 77, Rachin Ravindra 65; Washington Sundar 7-59, R Ashwin 2-64) lead India 16/1 by 243 runs.