Published By: Rohit Chatterjee

IND vs. NZ Test: R Ashwin’s Five Spells That Baffled the Blackcaps

Ashwin has been a constant thorn in New Zealand’s side, especially on Indian pitches that support his bowling style

The highly anticipated three-match Test series between India and New Zealand is set to commence on October 16 at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Following a dominant 2-0 triumph over Bangladesh in their last home series, India is now eyeing a clean sweep against the Kiwis. This will mark New Zealand’s first Test series on Indian soil since 2021, where they experienced a 0-1 defeat. Historically, the Kiwis have yet to win a Test series in India, and the hosts are determined to uphold their unbeaten record.

Ravichandran Ashwin, who was awarded Player of the Series for his all-round brilliance against Bangladesh, is one player to watch as India takes on New Zealand. Ashwin is prepared to showcase his renowned spin skills against the Blackcaps, and with matches scheduled in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai, he’s set to make an impact on familiar grounds.

As one of India’s most successful spinners over the past decade, Ashwin has established himself as a match-winner, especially in Test cricket. Since his debut in 2011, he’s claimed 527 wickets in 102 Tests with a strike rate of 50.3, frequently turning games in India’s favour. Ahead of this series, let’s revisit five of Ashwin’s most memorable spells against New Zealand.

6/132 - Green Park, 2016

In the 2016 Test at Green Park, Ashwin was unstoppable. India set New Zealand a daunting target of 434 runs, and with big names like Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor in their line-up, the Kiwis had a tough challenge ahead. However, Ashwin quickly dismantled the top order, sending back Williamson, Tom Latham, and Martin Guptill before the score hit 50. Though Luke Ronchi and Mitchell Santner tried to counterattack, Ashwin claimed the tail-enders to secure a massive 197-run victory for India. He finished with impressive figures of 6/132 in 35.3 overs.

6/31 - Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, 2012

The 2012 Test at Hyderabad marked Ashwin’s first face-off against New Zealand, and he left an indelible mark. After India posted a formidable 438 runs, Ashwin tore through the New Zealand batting line-up. In just 16.3 overs, he claimed six wickets, including top batters like Martin Guptill and Ross Taylor. His relentless spin bowling left the Kiwis reeling, and they were bowled out with no resistance. His spell of 6/31 was a standout moment and established Ashwin as a vital player in India’s Test line-up.

6/54 - Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, 2012

Continuing his dominance in the same match, Ashwin showcased an even more stellar performance in the second innings. After enforcing the follow-on, he once again took control, claiming another six-wicket haul and finishing with 12 wickets in the match. This incredible display of skill included dismissals of players like Ross Taylor, Daniel Flynn, and Trent Boult. His 6/54 in 26.5 overs demonstrated not only his ability to take key wickets but also his resilience, solidifying his place as a game-changer for India.

6/81 - Holkar Stadium, 2016

In the third Test of the 2016 series at Holkar Stadium in Indore, Ashwin showcased his unmatched spin abilities. The Kiwis struggled to counter his variations, and he removed top batters like Kane Williamson and Tom Latham, along with all-rounder James Neesham. Ashwin’s spell ended with figures of 6/81 in 27.2 overs, and he even managed two run-outs. With a combined haul of 13 wickets for the match, Ashwin led India to a resounding victory by 324 runs, proving that he could dominate on any track.

7/59 - Holkar Stadium, 2016

Ashwin’s masterful performance in the second innings of the same Indore Test was the stuff of legends. After India declared at 557/5, he delivered a deadly spell, claiming 7 wickets for just 59 runs in 13.5 overs. Ashwin started by trapping Kane Williamson, then rattled the stumps of Ross Taylor and Luke Ronchi. His lethal deliveries eventually bowled out New Zealand for 153, earning him the Man of the Match award. This spell not only highlighted Ashwin’s wicket-taking prowess but also his ability to dismantle strong opposition with ease.