Jadeja wraps up New-Zealand within 15.2 overs of Session 1

India, at 156, trail New Zealand’s total of 259 and 255 (Phillips 48, Blundell 41, Jadeja 3-72, Ashwin 2-97) by 359 runs. 

Although Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin claimed the remaining five New Zealand wickets for 57 runs, the pitch conditions have worsened, making India’s target of 359 appear monumental.

Jadeja's deliveries turning sharply at mid-90 kph proved promising for New Zealand. Even full deliveries were tough to hit out, as seen when Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel were caught in the deep. Glenn Phillips, however, added a final touch to New Zealand’s innings, hitting two sixes in a last-wicket partnership that extended their lead past 350.

India’s day began poorly as their experienced spinners took to the field. Ashwin’s first ball produced an edge that Rohit Sharma didn’t attempt. Tom Blundell and Phillips quickly added 33 runs to the overnight score before Jadeja claimed his first wicket with a natural variation that beat Blundell’s inside edge.

Santner misjudged a half-volley, sending it only as far as long-on, while Ashwin found Tim Southee’s edge, which Rohit caught this time. In a dramatic end to the innings, Ajaz’s slog-sweep led to a brilliant catch by Washington Sundar at deep midwicket, despite missing a potential five-for.

The final wicket was a display of casual errors from Washington and William O’Rourke. Phillips, attempting to retain strike, was caught off guard at deep cover, while O’Rourke, assuming the second run was unnecessary, took it easy. Jadeja capitalized on the confusion by deflecting the throw onto the stumps, all while showing visible frustration with Washington.

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