India vs New Zealand 3rd Test - Notable Bets & Forecast
Score Prediction and Betting Preview for India vs New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium
India is gearing up for a crucial clash against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium, aiming to avoid a heartbreaking series whitewash and save their World Test Championship chances. After the shocking 2-0 defeat in their home series, the home team is under immense pressure, with a challenging series in Australia looming ahead.
Captain Rohit Sharma admitted to a collective failure in the first Test, echoing Indian fans' expectations of a smooth victory. Key batters like Rishabh Pant and Sarfaraz Khan have also underperformed, adding to the team's woes.
New Zealand, on the other hand, has managed to make an impact with strategic changes. Mitchell Santner's inclusion proved a game-changer, delivering two five-wicket hauls and contributing crucial runs. Santner's success has raised questions about the team's balance between seam and spin, with possible substitutions for Ajaz Patel or Tim Southee.
As India strives to revive its World Test Championship bid, New Zealand sees an opportunity to secure a top-two finish. A win in Mumbai followed by a 3-0 sweep over England at home could give them a strong enough points percentage for a potential final berth.
Despite India's struggles, they are still considered favorites in this match, thanks to Mumbai's spin-friendly conditions. The spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar could capitalize on these conditions. Back India to win at 1.34 to salvage some pride.
Players to Watch
- Ravichandran Ashwin – Known for his exceptional performance in Mumbai, Ashwin aims to return to his uncharacteristic form in Bengaluru.
- Daryl Mitchell – Despite his recent struggles with just 19 runs on average, Mitchell is a key player to watch out for, with his impressive performance in the last Mumbai Test in 2021.
Prediction: India to win at 1.34.
Key Stats
- The average first-innings score in Wankhede Tests is 339.
- The all-time batting average in the fourth innings of a Wankhede Test stands at a meager 19.78.
- Jasprit Bumrah averages an unenviable 62.25 against New Zealand's last top seven.
- Tom Blundell averages just 16 against India's second Test bowling attack.
Best Bets
- Highest individual score to be under 144.5 – At 1.90.
- Ravi Ashwin to be India's top 1st innings bowler – At 2.85.
In the upcoming India vs New Zealand clash at Wankhede Stadium, it might be wise to reconsider bets on high individual scores due to the stadium's history, as the average first-innings score is 339.
With Daryl Mitchell's recent struggles and averaging just 19 runs, sports enthusiasts might want to reassess their betting on his performance.
After a disappointing series, India is under pressure to perform well in Mumbai, where spin bowlers like Ravichandran Ashwin could shine, making a bet on him to be India's top 1st innings bowler a potentially profitable choice.
As India seeks to avoid a series whitewash, the spin-friendly conditions at Wankhede could give them an edge over New Zealand, prompting a review of betting odds in favor of the home team.
