Earlier, India was bowled out for 263 in their first innings, with Shubman Gill top-scoring with a well-crafted 90, supported by Rishabh Pant’s 60. The duo stitched a vital 96-run partnership for the fifth wicket after India had been in trouble at 86/4.
Washington Sundar added a valuable 38 not out, hitting four fours and two sixes. New Zealand’s left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel continued his impressive form at the Wankhede Stadium, claiming 5-103, taking his tally to 19 wickets at the venue in just three innings.
New Zealand’s second innings faltered early, with Tom Latham, Devon Conway, and Rachin Ravindra dismissed cheaply, leaving them at 44/3.
Will Young (51) and Daryl Mitchell offered some resistance with a 50-run stand before Jadeja and Ashwin continued to chip away at the middle order. Glenn Phillips showed some aggression with three sixes but was bowled for 26 by Ashwin. Jadeja wrapped up the day by dismissing Matt Henry, leaving New Zealand with a precarious lead and only one wicket in hand.
Despite New Zealand’s series-clinching victories in the first two Tests in Bengaluru and Pune, India’s spinners have put them under significant pressure in this match as they seek a consolation win.