India’s batting lineup faltered against a resilient New Zealand spin attack on Day 3 of the third Test, with Sarfaraz Khan’s form coming under scrutiny after another underwhelming performance. India, now at 81/6, faces an uphill task to reach their target as Rishabh Pant leads a one-man rescue effort at the Wankhede Stadium.

Sarfaraz Khan’s struggles in spotlight as India’s top order collapses

Sarfaraz Khan’s disappointing scores have added fuel to fan concerns over his place in India’s Test lineup. Selected over seasoned batters like Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, Sarfaraz was expected to bring stability, especially on pitches favoring spinners. However, his recent scores of 11, 9, 0, and 1 across the last two Tests have sparked debate over his inclusion, particularly as he struggled against New Zealand’s spin attack in both innings.

Fans have voiced disappointment, pointing to Sarfaraz’s inability to handle turning tracks—a skillset they feel Iyer, known for his resilience on challenging pitches, could have provided. Critics argue that his inclusion, alongside captain Rohit Sharma, who’s been questioned for his own struggles, reflects an imbalance in selection that leaves India vulnerable on spin-friendly wickets. With India now six down and still trailing in their run chase, Pant’s fight alone may not be enough to overturn this shaky position.

See Also: Ishan Kishan lands in controversy as India A accused of ball-tampering against Australia A

Pant’s grit and New Zealand’s spin dominance

Amid India’s collapse, Rishabh Pant has shown determination, fighting hard to stabilize the innings. Pant’s aggression against the New Zealand spinners kept the scoreboard ticking, with crucial boundaries keeping India’s hopes alive. His spirited 55 off 56 deliveries brought some relief to the team, but with little support from the other end, India remains in a challenging position. As Washington Sundar joins him after lunch, fans are hoping the pair can pull off a miracle chase.

New Zealand’s spinners, particularly Ajaz Patel, have been impressive, exploiting India’s vulnerabilities on the turning Wankhede pitch. Patel, who broke the partnership by removing Ravindra Jadeja for just six runs, has been instrumental in breaking India’s top order, and the Black Caps’ spinners continue to keep India under constant pressure. In the early sessions, Patel and Rachin Ravindra dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, putting the visiting team on the back foot early on.

As Day 3 continues, India’s chances rest heavily on Pant’s shoulders. If Pant and Sundar can build a resilient stand, India may still have a fighting chance, but any further wickets could put New Zealand firmly in command and expose India’s vulnerability to quality spin—a factor that has haunted their performance in this series.

.@ShreyasIyer15 continues to impress as he led the counter-attack for 🇮🇳 by scoring a well-crafted 8⃣7️⃣ 🤩

📹 Watch the highlights of his innings here 🏏#ShreyasIyer #BANvIND #SonySportsNetwork pic.twitter.com/ZKJ1RSyNwZ

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) December 23, 2022

Sarfaraz Khan playing on flat tracks in Mumbai and averaging like Bradman have made general audience believe he is next big thing.

I am saying it again, Sanju Samson who plays on testing wickets in Kerala will be more useful than him in Red ball.#INDvNZpic.twitter.com/SWJGJ01kO5

— Anurag™ (@Samsoncentral) November 3, 2024

Imagine the level of politics that This one innings wonder Sarfaraz Khan Replaced KL Rahul 🤡🤡#INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/LVaNHnDxB1

— 𝙎𝙤𝙣𝙪 ✨ (@KLfied_) November 3, 2024

The biggest downfall for Indian cricket is that Rohit Sharma & Sarfaraz Khan are playing test cricket for India, and Our selfless captain Rohit Sharma is playing only on the captaincy quota, and players like Shreyas lyer & KL Rahul are not playing just because of these two. pic.twitter.com/578BUkZQEZ

— Pick-up Shot (@96ShreyasIyer) November 3, 2024

Shreyas Iyer used to rescue Indian from these collapses on spin tracks and Indian team dropped him for this flat pitch bully Sarfaraz Khan, who looked incredibly clueless when ball started to turn in last 2 tests.

Sarfaraz in last 2 tests - 11, 9, 0, 1.pic.twitter.com/Ugo2MrWNRA

— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) November 3, 2024

Petition to drop Sarfaraz khan from test cricket 🙏 he can only score in Ranji. Like this tweet and I will give 1000 Rupees to everyone 🌟#sarfrazkhan #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/uBtUJQCbgT

— Ashish (@SirAshu2002) November 3, 2024

Rohit Sharma, Sarfaraz Khan, Yashasvi Jaiswal
All them failed but only KL Rahul got dropped i don't know why #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/tCGrEH4uoW

— Chase (@holopoem_3) November 3, 2024

Another PR merchant ~Sarfaraz Khan #Ind pic.twitter.com/idWjQfhBqF

— कृष्णा 🥀 (@Unfunny_Thor) November 2, 2024

Sarfaraz khan #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/GpGp9tZEjg

— Pulkit (@PulkitK107) November 3, 2024

India’s Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill took the spotlight on Day 2 of the third Test, putting up a solid partnership that lifted India to 185/5 in the 39.4th over. With both young batters reaching their fifties, the morning session saw India countering New Zealand’s early edge and stabilizing their innings with aggressive play.

Pant and Gill dominate New Zealand bowlers in morning session

Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill brought an impressive start for India on Day 2, with both batters reaching their fifties to shift the momentum in India's favor. Shubman Gill played with determination, benefitting from a dropped catch on 45, and reached his fifty with precise strokes and well-timed boundaries. Pant, meanwhile, played a chanceless innings, reaching 60 runs off just 59 balls, showcasing his trademark aggressive style. The pair added 100-plus runs together, punishing the New Zealand bowlers and pushing the Indian score to 185/5 in the 39.4th over.

Gill’s solid 68 off 98 balls included several exquisite cover drives and disciplined shot selection, reflecting his composure at the crease. His partnership with Pant proved to be a much-needed lift for India after New Zealand’s early breakthroughs on Day 1. Pant, with his fearless batting, took on the bowlers from the outset, racing to 55 with boundaries and singles that kept the scoreboard ticking.

𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐚𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐡𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐢 🔥#INDvNZ #IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports #RishabhPant pic.twitter.com/Rf9qhP76PF

— JioCinema (@JioCinema) November 2, 2024

See Also: Watch: Hardik Pandya flaunts 'World Champion' ring, celebrating India's T20 triumph

India fight back against New Zealand’s early advantage

New Zealand’s bowlers initially found success on Day 1, putting India under pressure by claiming four early wickets. However, Pant and Gill's partnership on Day 2 shifted the tide, with the young duo anchoring the innings and taking India to a stronger position by the morning's end. The quick runs from Pant gave India a boost in run rate, and Gill’s solid technique kept the bowlers at bay, helping India build towards a competitive total.

The New Zealand bowlers, who seemed poised for a quick finish in the early stages, struggled to contain the aggressive pair as they adjusted their lengths but found little success. As the day progresses, India will look to Pant and Gill to continue their form and lead a counterattack that could potentially set the stage for a challenging total.

After a day of gripping cricket, New Zealand managed to edge ahead with a lead of 149 runs as India struggled to rein in Mitchell and Young’s strong batting performance. Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja led India’s bowling with impactful spells, but New Zealand’s middle-order resilience put them in the driver’s seat.

Early success for Indian bowlers as Sundar and Jadeja shine

India struck early, with Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja picking up key wickets to put New Zealand on the back foot. Sundar bowled beautifully, dismissing New Zealand's Tom Latham for 28, his delivery drifting in and breaking past the outside edge to uproot Latham’s off-stump. Ravindra Jadeja, meanwhile, kept things tight from the other end and managed to bag a five-wicket haul, delivering a masterclass of spin on the lively pitch.

Despite India’s early gains, New Zealand’s Mitchell and Young resisted with patience and precision. Young struck a composed 71 before Jadeja claimed his wicket with a well-placed delivery that found its way to Rohit Sharma at slip. Mitchell, however, was the standout performer, posting a gritty 82 with some well-timed boundaries and towering sixes, making India’s bowlers toil for every wicket.

See Also: Fans criticize Kohli’s focus after quick run-out in Mumbai Test

New Zealand's middle-order resilience secure the lead

Daryl Mitchell's steadfast approach paid off, even as wickets fell around him. His powerful hitting displayed both control and aggression, including a massive six off Sundar that reached the top tier, thrilling fans and teammates alike. He and Will Young’s partnership added crucial runs, pushing New Zealand’s total to 235 before Sundar managed a final breakthrough, claiming Ajaz Patel’s wicket after he misjudged a drifting delivery that struck him plumb in front.

While Sundar and Jadeja dominated the wicket tally, India’s bowlers had little answer to New Zealand’s composed middle-order play. Jadeja’s fifth wicket of the innings, however, gave India a glimmer of hope as he bowled Matt Henry with a delivery that spun away sharply. New Zealand eventually closed the innings at 235, leaving India with a deficit of 149 runs to overcome as they prepare for Day 2.

Virat Kohli’s recent performance against New Zealand has sparked a flurry of reactions across social media. The former Indian skipper, known for his composure and precision, was dismissed after scoring only 4 runs off 6 balls, run out by Matt Henry. Kohli’s unexpected dismissal has drawn mixed responses from fans, with many voicing frustration over his apparent loss of game awareness and “athletic risks” on the field.

Run-Out sparks social media debate

During the match against New Zealand, Kohli came to the crease with high expectations but lasted only six balls before being dismissed with a quick run-out from Matt Henry. As Ravindra Jadeja continued at the crease, cutting one to the boundary past Kohli at gully, Kohli’s exit became the focus of fan reactions online. Many fans were left disappointed, pointing out that Kohli's recent approach to the game seemed distracted and overconfident. In one tweet, a fan remarked, “Kohli needs to regain his game awareness; we miss the focused Kohli of earlier days.”

See Also: Watch: Dravid prioritizes core strength, explains road ahead for Rajasthan

Fans criticize Kohli’s attempts

Some fans expressed that Kohli, in trying to incorporate new tactics, seemed to lose focus and concentration. Criticism mounted as social media users pointed out that Kohli's aggressive fielding approach, which many associate with his fitness regimen, might now be affecting his overall performance.

From online discussions to memes, fans did not hold back in expressing their disappointment. "Kohli seems distracted, focusing more on athletic feats than staying grounded in his game,” one user commented. With fans recalling his prime days and asking for a return to form, it is clear that Kohli’s performance has become a heated topic in cricket circles.

What is Virat doing in the test team ? He hasn't even scored 3 centuries in the last 5 years but still he is playing in the test team.#INDvNZ #NZvIND #INDvsNZTEST #INDvNZ #INDvsNZ #NZvsIND #IPLRetention #IPL2025 #RohitSharma #viratkohli pic.twitter.com/cQUqE0w0uo

— kuldeep singh (@kuldeep0745) November 1, 2024

Kohli should seriously think of the way how he is getting out
Literally he is throwing his wicket #ViratKohli #INDvsNZTEST

— Prakhar Patwardhan 🇮🇳 (@PrakharPatward1) November 1, 2024

Why can't you send #ashwin or #sundar as a night watchman? Why you have to send #siraj? One wrong decision costed us 2 wickets without a reason. A total brain fade moment for #ViratKohli which I have never seen before in his career. #INDvNZ #NZvsIND #mumbai #Deepavali2024

— Hasanpreet Singh (@hps2512) November 1, 2024

Virat's been a legend, but is it time for a new era? 🏏 #INDvsNZ #ViratKohli #RavindraJadeja #RohitSharma #WashingtonSundar #INDvNZ #MohammadSiraj #INDvsNZTEST #NZvsIND #INDvNZpic.twitter.com/AptaoJYZ6v

— TechnoSports Media Group (@TechnoSports_in) November 1, 2024

Why does Kohli have to take these risky singles, especially in Test cricket?

It was his call. This is clearly his fault. This can't be an excuse for his poor form in test cricket.

— Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) November 1, 2024

Kohli trying to do athletics in cricket and getting punished for it. He has lost his game awareness as well as his concentration level. Pathetic to say the least. pic.twitter.com/TFAaIqtdbs

— 🖤 (@ameye_17) November 1, 2024

Pata hai Kohli, you are fit. Ab bas karde bhai quick single. 🙏

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 1, 2024

An English batter could not tolerate the hot and humid conditions of Mumbai and decided to run himself out to sit comfortably at the dressing room. pic.twitter.com/YEi5Ist3zQ

— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) November 1, 2024

On the opening day of the third Test at the Wankhede Stadium, New Zealand’s Will Young fought back valiantly after an early setback against India’s disciplined spin attack. Opting to bat, New Zealand faced some early struggles as Washington Sundar’s incisive spell claimed two quick wickets. However, Young’s gritty innings kept the visitors in the contest as he notched up a well-deserved fifty, taking New Zealand to 130/3 by the second session.

Sundar’s spell brings India back into the game

After New Zealand lost Devon Conway early to Akash Deep, the visitors found a brief reprieve with a 44-run stand between Tom Latham and Will Young. But Washington Sundar’s entrance turned the tables for India. With his flight and drift troubling the New Zealand batters, Sundar struck a decisive blow by dismissing Latham, who misjudged the line and had his stumps rattled. The off-spinner continued his spell of dominance, delivering another similar beauty to bowl Rachin Ravindra, who was left shaking his head as he walked off. Sundar’s 2-26 provided India with critical breakthroughs, keeping the game evenly poised.

See Also: IPL 2025: Players retained by each team; Retention rules explained

Will Young’s gritty fifty rescues New Zealand

Despite the setbacks, Young displayed resilience and continued to score freely when opportunities arose. As the Indian spinners began to find more grip off the pitch, Young reached his fifty with a commanding six straight down the ground, showcasing his confidence and determination. Alongside Daryl Mitchell, he ensured New Zealand avoided further damage, with the pair steadying the innings through the growing turn and bounce on offer. At 60 off 115 deliveries, Young’s innings was a testament to his focus and skill, as he faced down India’s spinners and kept New Zealand in the fight.

As the second session progresses, the Wankhede surface is starting to offer more assistance to the spinners, which could make batting even more challenging for New Zealand. Ravindra Jadeja has already shown signs of turn, and the Indian bowlers will look to capitalize on the conditions to keep the pressure on the visiting side.

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah will be sitting out the third Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as part of a workload management strategy. After featuring in both Tests against Bangladesh and the first two Tests of this series, the Indian team management has decided to rest him ahead of the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, starting November 22.

Bumrah’s workload management in focus ahead of Australia tour

The decision to rest Bumrah stems from the need to manage his workload after a busy season. Originally, the Indian team management had planned to give Bumrah a break during the second Test in Pune, but following India’s defeat in the first Test, the plans were adjusted. Bumrah’s recent performance in the Pune Test saw him bowl only 14 overs without any wickets, underlining the necessity of ensuring he is fit and ready for upcoming high-stakes matches. A team source confirmed Bumrah's return to Ahmedabad, where he joined his family for Diwali, marking a brief respite before rejoining the team for the Australian series.

See Also: Can India avert a clean sweep? Crucial WTC points on the line

Gambhir highlights Bumrah’s preparatory routine and experience

India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Bumrah’s approach, emphasizing that as a seasoned player, he’s well-aware of how much preparation is necessary to stay match-ready. According to Gambhir, Bumrah is preserving his energy for the demanding conditions in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and he skipped bowling sessions during the recent practice drills in Mumbai to focus on physical conditioning and recovery. This decision is part of a larger strategy to ensure the pacer’s fitness, with Gambhir expressing full confidence in Bumrah’s readiness for the crucial series ahead.

India are set to face New Zealand in a critical Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, where a win could revive their World Test Championship (WTC) aspirations. The pressure is palpable as India, facing an unusual home series loss, aims to avoid a rare clean sweep. With four wins required out of the remaining six Tests, including a challenging series in Australia, India's quest to secure a WTC final spot has intensified.

India hope to bounce back with crucial WTC points on the line

India, known for their formidable home record, now finds themselves in uncharted territory after losing the series. A win in Mumbai is not just a matter of pride but critical for their WTC journey, as they look to avoid a series whitewash. The team, under the guidance of head coach Gautam Gambhir, is focusing on rallying together to regain momentum before heading into the tough away series in Australia.

The Wankhede pitch is expected to favor spin early on, adding excitement for fans and challenging India’s spin attack to deliver. India’s batting line-up, struggling with form and consistency, faces the task of overcoming technical struggles to support the spinners. With WTC points on the line, the team’s morale hinges on avoiding a historic clean sweep and restoring confidence.

See Also: Will India travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

New Zealand bring fresh confidence as India fight familiar challenges

New Zealand’s adaptability have thrown India's dominance off balance, forcing the team to reassess their strategies and approach to spin. New Zealand have managed to challenge India's typically ironclad home game, setting up thrilling contests for the Wankhede Test. With a balanced line-up of seasoned players and emerging talent, the Black Caps have shown their depth and adaptability in Indian conditions.

For the Indian squad, the spotlight will also be on Jasprit Bumrah’s availability, which could affect their bowling strategy. Meanwhile, the team’s veterans and younger players alike are determined to avoid a clean sweep. As captain Rohit Sharma and the top order seek to regain form, the team’s focus will be on turning the tables against a resilient New Zealand squad.

Probable XI of India: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep/Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah

Probable XI of New Zealand: Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee/Matt Henry, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel

IND vs NZ Match Preview

New Zealand made history by defeating India in a Test series at home, a feat no other team had achieved in 12 years. They now have a 2-0 lead in the series with one match remaining. The third Test begins on November 1 at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, and both teams have a lot to play for.  A wounded India would be looking not only to save face, but also to the World Test Championship (WTC) final scenarios. They must win four from their next six Tests to have a chance of making the final. This means they have to win the next Test to remain in contention ahead of their major Test tour to Australia. 

IND vs NZ Match Details

India vs New Zealand – 3rd Match, Test Match

Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Date & Time: 01st November 2024 at 09:30 AM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

IND vs NZ Venue Stats

IND vs NZ Pitch Report

The pitch flattens out over time and becomes easier to bat to serve as the match progresses, allowing teams batting second to fully capitalize and post a massive total.

IND vs NZ Weather Report

The weather is expected to be sunny, warm, and clear for the five-day test, with light winds at times. It should be a pleasant morning session.

IND vs NZ Last Five Matches

IND vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

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IND vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, William O’Rourke

India Probable Playing XIs

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk)/ Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep/ Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah/ Mohammed Siraj

Topmost Picks for IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – India

• Rohit Sharma – Rohit Sharma scored a quick 48 in the second inning of the first Test and looked completely in command before getting out.
• Ravichandran Ashwin – Ravichandran Ashwin had a disappointing outing, going for runs and collecting just 1 wicket in the whole match.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Rachin Ravindra – Rachin Ravindra impressed with a man of the match performance, notching up his first test hundred against India in the second innings and seeing off the chase in the fourth innings.
• Ajaz Patel – New Zealand will likely continue with Ajaz Patel as the frontline spinner in the team. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for IND vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Devon Conway, Yashasvi Jaiswal(VC), Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Tom Latham, Mitchell Santner(C), Rachin Ravindra, Ravindra Jadeja, Tim Southee, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for IND vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Devon Conway, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Will Young, Tom Latham, Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra(C), Ravindra Jadeja(VC), Tim Southee, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner

Vice-captain – Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja

Wicketkeeper – Rishabh Pant

IND vs NZ Probable Winners:

Even though New Zealand has already won the series, there is still plenty to play for. They is going to be eager to make it 3-0, while the home team will be desperate for a single win to save face and improve their WTC chances. The last time these two teams met at the Wankhede Stadium, India bowled New Zealand out for 62 and won by 372 runs. However, there is a different Kiwi side that is full of confidence. They will come at India again, and things will not be easy. India, meanwhile, will suffer. They will undoubtedly be low on confidence and may be unable to recover from this setback. Considering the team combination, India is expected to win this match.

A famous streak comes to an end. The Invincible Indians have finally been beaten at home by a New Zealand side that has come in short on experience. There could be some inspection into things after the series but for India the short term goal will be to get a win and  get some WTC points with their lead now all but diminished. From being comfortably placed to making the Finals they now have to get some really good performances through in Australia, which is always going to be a challenge.

New Zealand though will be believing. They did the unthinkable and they are passing the baton on now with youngsters stepping up. Can they make the Final? They are in with a strong chance as New Zealand face England at home after this which is a spot they are normally very strong in.

IND vs NZ Match Details

Date: November 1st, 2024

Time:  9:30 AM IST

Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

IND vs NZ Weather Report

Weather interruptions are unlikely to be a concern with Mumbai normally pretty dry at this time of the year.

IND vs NZ Pitch Report

Mumbai's pitch is famous for being a red soil one and it is one that will definitely take turn as the game goes on. A rank turner is expected and batting first is the better choice.

IND vs NZ Predicted Playing XI

NZ Playing XI

Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, William O Rourkee

IND Playing XI

Rohit Sharma, Yashashvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep, Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar

See Also: Today’s Cricket Match Predictions – Cricket Winner

IND vs NZ Key Players

Mitchell Santnerhas 

Mitchell Santner has finally made a statement on his Test career. His Test career is one that easily could have been a lot more and the struggles seem through with this series going exceptionally well for him.

Virat Kohli

A big score has been missing from Virat Kohli. He has looked in decent touch getting in his innings well but he is struggling again to convert his starts into match-defining scores as he once used to.

IND vs NZ Match Tips

While New Zealand are up in the series India will still believe that they are favorites with more spin likely in the next game.

Match Prediction: India Will Win The Match

Delhi’s promising fast bowler Harshit Rana has been added to India’s squad for the third and final Test against New Zealand, set to take place in Mumbai on November 1. Rana's inclusion comes on the heels of an impressive domestic season, with his performances putting him on the national radar. His call-up also precedes his selection for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia later this year.

Delhi speedster Harshit Rana, known for his pace and late movement, has been included in India's squad for the final Test against New Zealand, scheduled for November 1 in Mumbai. While it’s uncertain if Rana is covering for any specific injuries, his addition strengthens India’s bowling lineup as they gear up to conclude the series on a high note.

Impressive Ranji performance and national selection

Harshit Rana's national selection is a testament to his recent achievements in domestic cricket. In the third round of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, Rana picked up a sensational five-wicket haul against Assam, finishing with seven wickets in the match and scoring a swift 59 runs in the lower order. His performance was instrumental in securing Delhi’s first victory of the season at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

See Also: Glenn Maxwell shares Kohli blocked him; 'It was because you mocked me…"

Strong domestic season catches selector's eye

The young bowler has had a remarkable domestic season so far, beginning with the Duleep Trophy, where he claimed two four-wicket hauls. His performance for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2024 season was equally impressive, as he finished with 19 wickets in just 11 bowling innings. Rana’s lively pace and control have not only gained him recognition from the national selectors but also praise from his IPL mentors, including India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and assistant Abhishek Nayar.

Having been included in India's 18-member Test squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia, Rana will be one of three uncapped players to potentially represent India in the high-profile series. This call-up to the squad is a significant step for the young bowler, who continues to gain experience and make his mark across formats.