Historic Bowling Performances in India-New Zealand Test Series

The India-New Zealand Test cricket rivalry has witnessed several memorable bowling performances over the years, significantly influencing the trajectory of matches and embedding themselves in the annals of cricketing history. Both spin and pace bowlers from these nations have showcased their skills on Indian soil, creating moments that are remembered by cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

Among the most iconic of these performances is Ajaz Patel‘s remarkable 10-wicket haul in Mumbai in 2021. The New Zealand spinner made history by taking all ten wickets in an innings, joining the elite group of bowlers that includes Jim Laker and Anil Kumble. Ajaz’s figures of 10/119 in India’s first innings at the Wankhede Stadium were a testament to his exceptional left-arm spin abilities. Despite New Zealand’s loss by 372 runs, Patel’s feat remains a standout moment in the cricketing rivalry. Ajaz Patel’s achievement was further amplified by the fact that it occurred in Mumbai, the city of his birth, enriching the historic significance of his performance.

Another noteworthy performance came from Dion Nash, whose exceptional spell of 6/27 in Mohali in 1999 played a crucial role in a low-scoring encounter. Nash utilized the conducive pitch conditions to swing and seam his deliveries, dismantling India’s batting lineup, albeit in a drawn match. This performance stands as one of the finest by a New Zealand pacer in Indian conditions.

Ravichandran Ashwin‘s formidable 7/59 in Indore in 2016 is another highlight of the India-New Zealand Test history. His pivotal role in India’s 321-run victory and subsequent series sweep showcased his mastery of spin bowling. Ashwin’s spell not only secured a win but also established him as a dominant force on home soil, with his all-round performance earning him the Player of the Series award.

In the same 1999 Mohali match, Javagal Srinath delivered an impactful performance with figures of 6/45. His ability to extract movement and pace off the pitch highlighted his prowess, contributing significantly to India’s bowling attack in conditions favoring fast bowlers.

These remarkable spells by Ajaz Patel, Dion Nash, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Javagal Srinath are celebrated benchmarks in the India-New Zealand cricket rivalry. They underscore the critical role that both pace and spin bowling have played in shaping the outcomes of closely contested Test matches.