In the ongoing Test match between India and New Zealand in Pune, something remarkable occurred. Washington Sundar, playing his first Test match for India after a gap of 1329 days, claimed an outstanding 7 wickets for just 59 runs in New Zealand’s first innings. This performance has drawn attention not only for its brilliance but also because it has revived an 8-year-old coincidence that could work in Team India’s favor.
A Rare Feat Repeats After 8 Years
The last time an Indian spinner took exactly 7 wickets for 59 runs against New Zealand was back in 2016. Ravichandran Ashwin had pulled off this feat in Indore, during New Zealand’s second innings, helping India to a massive win by 321 runs. With Washington Sundar replicating this incredible bowling figure, fans and cricket enthusiasts are wondering if this is a good omen for another big Indian win.
But that’s not all. The coincidence is even more significant when we look deeper into cricket history.
Fourth Time in Four Decades: A Pattern of Victory
This is not the first time an Indian bowler has claimed 7 wickets for 59 runs in a Test match. It is actually the fourth time in the last four decades. And every time before this, Team India has gone on to win the match. Let’s take a quick look at these memorable performances:
- Anil Kumble (1994): The legendary spinner Anil Kumble achieved this feat in a Test match against Sri Lanka in Lucknow. His 7/59 in the second innings helped India secure a resounding victory by an innings and 119 runs.
- Irfan Pathan (2005): Fast bowler Irfan Pathan took 7 wickets for 59 runs against Zimbabwe in Harare. His stunning performance in the first innings played a key role in India’s 10-wicket win in that match.
- Ravichandran Ashwin (2016): In the 2016 Indore Test against New Zealand, Ashwin’s 7/59 in the second innings ensured a colossal win for India by 321 runs.
- Washington Sundar (2024): Now, in the Pune Test of 2024, Washington Sundar has matched this magical bowling figure. Will this performance lead India to another historic win, just like the past three times?
A Lucky Number for Team India?
While coincidences don’t guarantee outcomes, there is something special about the “7 wickets for 59 runs” statistic for Indian bowlers. Every time this figure has been achieved, India has come out victorious. And with Washington Sundar delivering this exceptional performance in the Pune Test, expectations are naturally high that Team India will add another win to their record.
With Sundar’s return to Test cricket marked by such an extraordinary bowling display, the Indian team is in a strong position to dominate the match. The Pune pitch has shown signs of favoring spin, which only enhances the chances of India building on this strong start.
What to Expect Next in the Pune Test?
As the Test match continues, India will look to capitalize on Sundar’s brilliant bowling and maintain control over the game. If history repeats itself, Sundar’s performance could be the catalyst for another major win for Team India.
The Pune Test is far from over, but with the past in mind, Sundar’s 7/59 has set the stage for what could be a memorable victory for the Indian team once again.
