India seal whitewash over Black Caps

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India completed a 3-0 series whitewash against New Zealand after recording a resounding 321-run victory on day four of the third Test at Indore on Tuesday.

New Zealand wilted on the final day under intense pressure from the Indian attack with Ravi Ashwin tearing the Kiwi batting lineup apart taking 7 for 59 as the Black Caps crumbled to 153 all out.

An unbeaten century from Cheteshwar Pujara helped India set New Zealand a nearly impossible target for victory earlier on day four.

Pujara was assisted by a half century from Gautum Gambhir (50) on his return to the Test fold after over two years in the wilderness.

Jeetan Patel was the pick of New Zealand’s bowlers picking up 2 for 56 before Kohli’s declaration came.

Only Ross Taylor (32) could get passed fifty for the visitor’s who have struggled to come to terms with the turning ball on this visit to the subcontinent.

Tailender Trent Boult and wicketkeeper BJ Watling were the only pair who managed to bat for longer than ten overs as New Zealand were quickly skittled for 153 to wrap up the Test on day four.

New Zealand will be disappointed that more batsmen have not stepped up in support of Kane Williamson throughout the series and although the bowling effort brought far more positives there is still work to do.

For India it’s mission accomplished for now having regained the number one ranking from Pakistan and played good cricket although the frailty of their middle order against spin remains a concern.

Next up for both sides is an ODI series that gets underway on Sunday at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharmasala.

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