The first test was a total collapse for the Indian batters as far as the spin was concerned leading to their first test series loss at home in the last 12 decades but it is understood that the Indian team management has made inquired the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) to prepare a ‘rank turner’ for the final test against New Zealand.
As per the report of Indian Express, the team wishes to go in for a familiar and reassuring strategy, that is basic a rank turning pitch that, from the very first day, will have the ball turning available.
“It will be rank turner pitch. The team management has requested to prepare a pitch which can help spinners from day 1. It seems that the team wants to go on familiar and proven strategy,” a source said.
The Indian team failed to tackle the turning ball by Mitchell Santner who took 13 wickets in the second Test as a result, it was India who capitulated in the series. In this case, quite a few Indian batsmen, including senior players of the team had poor showings again bringing the issue of the team’s problems with spin bowlers in sharp focus.
Interestingly, with the Wankhede having a red-soil pitch, it could also see the ball bouncing a lot which will increase the batting challenge even further. This may also mean that opportunities for the Indian spinners have been enhanced even more and this time, they would expect the bowlers to come up with something spectacular to win the game again.
Also, the Indian team may also think of infusing some fresh blood into the team. Harshit Rana, a pace bowler from Delhi has been added to the squad for the last Test anticipated. He might be included in the team perhaps to give him some match practice before the tour of Australia that comes after.
Traditionally, the spinners have had their share of success with R. Ashwin matching the great A. Kumble with 38 scalps taken at the Wankhede. One more thing to note was the fact that Ajaz Patel’s 10-wicket inning haul was also in the last Test match played in this very ground.
The Indian team would wish to redeem themselves with a victory but also resolve any query on their competency against spin.
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