New Zealand secured a 3-0 series whitewash clinching a dramatic 25-run victory over India in the 3rd and final Test at Mumbai's Dasarath Stadium. 

This achievement was historic as it marked the first time India had been whitewashed at home in a three-match Test series. 

The pivotal moment came through Ajaz Patel's remarkable spin bowling. 

After taking a five-wicket haul in the first innings, Patel dominated with figures of 6/57 in the second, earning a match total of 11 wickets.

New Zealand's first innings score of 235 featured contributions from opener Will Young (51), setting the stage for a fiercely contested match. India, bolstered by Ravindra Jadeja’s 5/55, managed to restrict New Zealand’s second innings to 174, setting themselves a target of 147 runs to prevent the series sweep.

However, India's batting faltered under pressure. Despite a resilient 64 by wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, India’s innings crumbled to 121 all out in just 29.1 overs. 

Patel’s heroics were complemented by disciplined fielding and bowling from New Zealand, making them the first visiting team in over a decade to inflict such a defeat on India.

This loss ended India’s long-standing record of not being whitewashed in a home Test series since 1955/56. 

BDST: 1405 HRS, NOV 03, 2024
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