Many have handed the initiative to New Zealand after the Kiwis ended Day 3 at 101/2. A brilliant bowling effort from the Kiwis on the morning of Day 3 undid all of India’s hard work on Day 2, as they were bundled out for a paltry 217. A solid start by the Kiwi openers meant New Zealand trailed India by just 116 runs with eight wickets in hand at the end of Day 3.
Discussing the day’s play on his YouTube channel, Deep Dasgupta felt India shouldn’t be too bogged down after falling behind.
India started the day at 146/3, with Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane looking settled at the crease. But the Indian skipper was sent packing by Kyle Jamieson without adding to his overnight score and his departure triggered a batting collapse. India went from 149/4 to 217 all-out, as Kyle Jamieson picked up his fifth fifer in his eighth Test.
New Zealand, on the other hand, negotiated the conditions brilliantly, making their way to 101/2 with Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor at the crease. Although Deep Dasgupta rued India’s collapse, the cricketer-turned-commentator feels the Kiwis may find themselves in a similar situation due to the testing weather conditions.
“India have to keep the run rate in control” – Deep Dasgupta
Charting out a bowling plan for India, Deep Dasgupta advised India to stop the flow of runs. Tight bowling combined with difficult batting conditions has meant scoring runs hasn’t been easy in the WTC final. Deep Dasgupta feels India need to keep up the pressure when they return to the field.
While New Zealand are certainly ahead, a concerted comeback by Indian bowlers could tilt the scales once again. Many felt they were unlucky on Sunday despite bowling some great spells, and things could quickly turn around whenever play resumes on Day 4 of the WTC final.
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