India vs New Zealand Match Prediction: Who will win the 3rd Test match?
Before traveling to India, New Zealand were comprehensively beaten by Sri Lanka. The Black Caps weren't given a chance of even competing against the two-time World Test Championship finalists, particularly without Kane Williamson, who has missed out on the series due to his recovery from a groin niggle.
Somehow, things have transpired in a way that has completely defied all expectations. New Zealand have been the standout team in the series so far in both departments, having outplayed the hosts over a consistent period.
In the first Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the Kiwi pacers used Rohit Sharma's decision to bat first under overcast conditions to their advantage. They ran riot to bowl India out for 46, and since then, India simply haven't been able to recover despite the odd small period of fight.
The second Test at the MCA Stadium in Pune was an accurate reflection of where the two teams are right now. New Zealand's spinners were able to adapt to the conditions better, and their batters did their bit as well. India were soundly beaten, losing their first home series in 12 years.
As the caravan shifts to Mumbai, can India manage to prevent a whitewash? A turning track is on the cards, and some of the home side's key batters have promising records at the venue. Or will New Zealand do what no visiting team has done in nearly 25 years?
IND vs NZ 2024: Can India salvage a Test?
Unfortunately, predictions in this series so far haven't been accurate. Despite being favored to win both matches, India have come up short, having been outplayed in both departments. Heading into the final Test in Mumbai, it's worth asking whether the visiting team are the favorites to win the contest for the first time in over a decade.
Can New Zealand keep up their good work? Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway have been immense against spin, and their solidity has helped the team overcome the lack of substantial runs from others in the batting lineup. The Kiwis have also got some contributions from their lower order at crucial junctures.
Mitchell Santner has led the way in the bowling department. Despite Ajaz Patel and Glenn Phillips not doing much with the ball, Tom Latham has had enough support from his fast bowlers, particularly when they have found movement in the air and off the deck.
Despite that, though, it's still hard to pick against India. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are due big knocks, while Yashasvi Jaiswal has looked rock solid at the top of the order. Rishabh Pant missed out in Pune, but he doesn't go too many matches without a sizeable score. If India's spinners can find their bearings, the hosts should be able to come out on top.
This match is closer than any other Indian soil has been in a considerable period, and New Zealand are capable of completing a 3-0 whitewash over the hosts. That said, however, Rohit and his men can still be backed to salvage a Test.
Prediction: India to win the 3rd Test vs New Zealand.