Nov. 21: Given the situation they are in, it will take a huge effort from New Zealand to even force a draw from here in the third and final Test against India. With three days of play left and the weathermen calling it clear the hosts will in all probability pocket another home series.
Gautam Gambhir after playing his part to perfection noted that a lead of 300 runs would help in effectively shutting the Kiwis from the game.
“I think it is a slow wicket and the way it was turning on the first day I think it didn’t deteriorate. If we have 300 runs lead on this wicket then we have a very good chance with two quality spinners in our side. So, I feel we can put a lot of pressure on them,” said Gambhir.
A lot of attention will be on Sachin Tendulkar’s possible 50th hundred. Gambhir was eager himself. “The team will be hoping for it to happen. I think it is going to be the biggest achievement for any cricketer. Hopefully, he can go on and score it tomorrow,” pointed out Gambhir.
The lingering problem for the opener was
fielding at forward short leg and aggravating his knee injury. But with no one to take that position he was not in a mood to complain.
“Honestly speaking, you see that there is no one who can field at that position in the present combination of the team. Till we get someone, I have to be there. At one point it used to bother me a lot. One time, it was a pretty serious injury. Standing in the forward short-leg for one-and-half days and with two spinners in a row, hardly gives you time to recover. It is a bit of concern but at the same time I have to always put the team’s interest first,” explained Gambhir.
Tim Southee who scalped the wicket of Gambhir was hoping for a turnaround. “Obviously, we are on the back foot. Not scoring enough runs is not helping our cause and they have a great partnership going on. Hopefully, we can pick early wickets tomorrow and fight our way back in,” said Southee.
The seamer bowled better in his second spell, mixing it well to Sachin Tendulkar. “I had better rhythm in that spell. And it just sort of went from there as I tried bowling wicket to wicket,” added Southee who contributed handsomely with the bat.