WATCH: Akash Deep draws first blood as Devon Conway departs to pavilion in 3rd Test match between IND and NZ

In the final encounter of the Test series between India and New Zealand, the visitors won the toss and chose to bat first. While the openers were in a good mood on a Friday morning, Akash Deep drew the first blood for India by dismissing the in-form batter Devon Conway on four runs. This was a much-needed breakthrough for India as he is a dangerous batter and had every possibility of scoring high runs in the game.

It was a brilliant and smart delivery by Akash Deep as the ball came in a bit and didn't leave enough time for Conway to react to it. There was no bat involved in the process, hence he was given out despite taking a review. 

🚨Conway Got out By Akash Deep
NZ 15/1 #IPLRetention#INDvNZ#India#akashdeeppic.twitter.com/xL84he74A5

— CAȚĆH DRÓPED 🇮🇳 (@madhugupta1985) November 1, 2024

To escape from a series whitewash on their home ground, India will have to play the best game possible in the next few days. Also, the chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 finals will increase only if India win games from here on. As per the calculations, the Men in Blue will have to win four games out of six left to qualify. 

Well, the main focus will be on this game because another loss in the WTC cycle will change the entire dynamics of the points table. Moreover, in this particular match, India have made only one change which was Mohammed Siraj's addition to the team. He came in for Jasprit Bumrah. 

Will Jasprit Bumrah's absence haunt India?

Jasprit Bumrah has been the backbone of the Indian bowling attack for a long time now. He has unique capabilities of giving breakthroughs to the team in crunch situations making him extra special. However, he is out of the 3rd Test match as he is recovering from illness. Hence, Siraj took his place. 

Also Read:Why is Jasprit Bumrah not playing the Mumbai Test against New Zealand?

Earlier some reports surfaced over the internet regarding Harshit Rana's inclusion in the 3rd Test match. But it seems like the youngster will have to wait for a while before making his way into the team. Now, missing out on Bumrah in an important match will definitely be risky for India, no matter how the pitch behaves in the game.

Bumrah's variations and knowledge about the game helped to get important wickets. The young bowlers will have to step up and play well for India to win the game and avoid a clean sweep.