India vs New Zealand Highlights, Kolkata Test, Day 3: Hosts stretch lead to 339 at stumps

That’s it from us at Firstpost Sports on Day 3 of the 2nd Test. Will the hosts declare overnight? Or will Kohli allow Saha to complete his half-century before unleasing his bowlers on the Black Caps? Join us tomorrow for Day 4. Till then, bye and have a great Sunday evening!

That’s it from us at Firstpost Sports on Day 3 of the 2nd Test. Will the hosts declare overnight? Or will Kohli allow Saha to complete his half-century before unleasing his bowlers on the Black Caps? Join us tomorrow for Day 4. Till then, bye and have a great Sunday evening!

That’s it from us at Firstpost Sports on Day 3 of the 2nd Test. Will the hosts declare overnight? Or will Kohli allow Saha to complete his half-century before unleasing his bowlers on the Black Caps? Join us tomorrow for Day 4. Till then, bye and have a great Sunday evening!

Since 1 Jan 2015, Rohit has scored 2nd most runs, has 3rd best average by an Indian in 3&4 inns of Tests - 42.62. Rahane (62), Vijay (42.85)

— Jigar Mehta (@jigsactin) October 2, 2016

Since 1 Jan 2015, Rohit has scored 2nd most runs, has 3rd best average by an Indian in 3&4 inns of Tests - 42.62. Rahane (62), Vijay (42.85)

— Jigar Mehta (@jigsactin) October 2, 2016

After 63.2 overs, India 227/8 (Wriddhiman Saha 39, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 8); lead by 339 runs

Bhuvneshwar Kumar comes down the track and launches a Santner delivery in a big strike over long-on. Henry survives a close call after a throw from substitute Bracewell at square-leg towards the non-striker’s end narrowly breezes past Henry’s head. The pacer holds his head after feeling the ball whizz past his head, and has a look of terror on his face. 

Not long after, the umpires signal the end of the day’s play due to bad light, with the hosts stretching their lead past 339.

After 63.2 overs, India 227/8 (Wriddhiman Saha 39, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 8); lead by 339 runs

Bhuvneshwar Kumar comes down the track and launches a Santner delivery in a big strike over long-on. Henry survives a close call after a throw from substitute Bracewell at square-leg towards the non-striker’s end narrowly breezes past Henry’s head. The pacer holds his head after feeling the ball whizz past his head, and has a look of terror on his face. 

Not long after, the umpires signal the end of the day’s play due to bad light, with the hosts stretching their lead past 339.

OUT! Jaddu’s blink-and-you-miss-it innings lasts just four deliveries, in which he manages to hammer a huge six over cow-corner and face two dots before miscuing an attempted slog to substitute fielder Neesham at short fine-leg. India lose their eighth wicket with 215 on board, though their lead is a solid 327. 

Ravindra Jadeja c Jimmy Neesham (sub) b Mitchell Santner 6(4)

OUT! Jaddu’s blink-and-you-miss-it innings lasts just four deliveries, in which he manages to hammer a huge six over cow-corner and face two dots before miscuing an attempted slog to substitute fielder Neesham at short fine-leg. India lose their eighth wicket with 215 on board, though their lead is a solid 327. 

Ravindra Jadeja c Jimmy Neesham (sub) b Mitchell Santner 6(4)

OUT! A fantastic innings by Rohit finally comes to an end after he nicks a flatter delivery from Santner outside off to the keeper. Rohit probably was a bit surprised by the extra turn.  Gets a standing ovation on his way back to the pavilion, for he produces yet another gem at the Eden Gardens! 

Rohit Sharma c Luke Ronchi b Mitchell Santner 82(132)

OUT! A fantastic innings by Rohit finally comes to an end after he nicks a flatter delivery from Santner outside off to the keeper. Rohit probably was a bit surprised by the extra turn.  Gets a standing ovation on his way back to the pavilion, for he produces yet another gem at the Eden Gardens! 

Rohit Sharma c Luke Ronchi b Mitchell Santner 82(132)

After 60 overs, India 209/6 (Rohit Sharma 82, Wriddhiman Saha 35); lead by 321 runs

Rohit brings up the 300-run lead for India with a cut towards backward point in the 58th over, which also catapults him into the 80s. India in firm control of the proceedings at the moment, and skipper Kohli is probably thinking of declaration anytime now.

After 60 overs, India 209/6 (Rohit Sharma 82, Wriddhiman Saha 35); lead by 321 runs

Rohit brings up the 300-run lead for India with a cut towards backward point in the 58th over, which also catapults him into the 80s. India in firm control of the proceedings at the moment, and skipper Kohli is probably thinking of declaration anytime now.

@ImRo45 is that friend who never does a shit for the project, but saves the group by answering the viva questions. #indvsnz #NZvIND

— Neelesh (@ImNeeleshK) October 2, 2016

@ImRo45 is that friend who never does a shit for the project, but saves the group by answering the viva questions. #indvsnz #NZvIND

— Neelesh (@ImNeeleshK) October 2, 2016

FIVE! Overthrows towards the non-striker’s end results in four extra runs that brings up the 200 for India! Neil Wagner has been having a tough time for quite some time now, and this would’ve made his temper worse.

FIVE! Overthrows towards the non-striker’s end results in four extra runs that brings up the 200 for India! Neil Wagner has been having a tough time for quite some time now, and this would’ve made his temper worse.

After 55 overs, India 186/6 (Rohit Sharma 66, Wriddhiman Saha 28); lead by 298 runs

Santner offers Rohit plenty of room outside off with a flighted delivery, which the latter justifiably punishes through cover to move to 60. Punishes Patel in the following over, this time punching through the covers on the backfoot. The partnership between the two is worth 80 at the end of the 55th over. Also, India’s lead is two short of 300 at the moment.

After 55 overs, India 186/6 (Rohit Sharma 66, Wriddhiman Saha 28); lead by 298 runs

Santner offers Rohit plenty of room outside off with a flighted delivery, which the latter justifiably punishes through cover to move to 60. Punishes Patel in the following over, this time punching through the covers on the backfoot. The partnership between the two is worth 80 at the end of the 55th over. Also, India’s lead is two short of 300 at the moment.

Rohit Sharma's career at Eden Gardens: (Till his 52 today)

Runs/Avg
FC:452/150.67
ListA:264/264
T20:401/50.12
Overall:1117/93.08#INDvNZ

— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) October 2, 2016

Rohit Sharma's career at Eden Gardens: (Till his 52 today)

Runs/Avg
FC:452/150.67
ListA:264/264
T20:401/50.12
Overall:1117/93.08#INDvNZ

— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) October 2, 2016

The fifty also ensures Rohit an entire England series. Hopefully he can bat with the mental freedom and score some big ones.

— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) October 2, 2016

The fifty also ensures Rohit an entire England series. Hopefully he can bat with the mental freedom and score some big ones.

— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) October 2, 2016

After 50 overs, India 171/6 (Rohit Sharma 53, Wriddhiman Saha 26); lead by 283 runs

FIFTY FOR ROHIT SHARMA! The Mumbai batsman continues to flourish at Eden Gardens, and the crowd roars in unison after he gets to the milestone with a boundary towards long-leg off a paddle-sweep. Big relief not only for Rohit, whose knock couldn’t have come at a better stage, but also for skipper Virat Kohli, who has consistently backed his selection in the side! 

After 50 overs, India 171/6 (Rohit Sharma 53, Wriddhiman Saha 26); lead by 283 runs

FIFTY FOR ROHIT SHARMA! The Mumbai batsman continues to flourish at Eden Gardens, and the crowd roars in unison after he gets to the milestone with a boundary towards long-leg off a paddle-sweep. Big relief not only for Rohit, whose knock couldn’t have come at a better stage, but also for skipper Virat Kohli, who has consistently backed his selection in the side! 

Lower order has bailed India out virtually every innings in last 6-7 months. Today, Saha's helped Rohit take this match far away from Kiwis

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) October 2, 2016

Lower order has bailed India out virtually every innings in last 6-7 months. Today, Saha's helped Rohit take this match far away from Kiwis

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) October 2, 2016

Rohit Sharma continues his affair with Eden. The first innings was just one blip.#INDvNZ

— Amit Banerjee (@akb287) October 2, 2016

Rohit Sharma continues his affair with Eden. The first innings was just one blip.#INDvNZ

— Amit Banerjee (@akb287) October 2, 2016

50 partnership for 7th wkt means good batting by @ImRo45 and @Wriddhipops but also that NZ have let things slip. @HTSportsNews

— Dhiman Sarkar (@DhimanHT) October 2, 2016

50 partnership for 7th wkt means good batting by @ImRo45 and @Wriddhipops but also that NZ have let things slip. @HTSportsNews

— Dhiman Sarkar (@DhimanHT) October 2, 2016

After 45 overs, India 157/6 (Rohit Sharma 46, Wriddhiman Saha 19); lead by 269 runs

Rohit barely had any role during his partnership, but is anchoring the Indian innings quite admirably. Hammers boundaries off Wagner — towards extra-cover and through gully respectively — to move into the 40s. Brings up the 50-stand with Saha in the 45th over — a much-needed stand for the hosts given the state that they found themselves in earlier.

After 45 overs, India 157/6 (Rohit Sharma 46, Wriddhiman Saha 19); lead by 269 runs

Rohit barely had any role during his partnership, but is anchoring the Indian innings quite admirably. Hammers boundaries off Wagner — towards extra-cover and through gully respectively — to move into the 40s. Brings up the 50-stand with Saha in the 45th over — a much-needed stand for the hosts given the state that they found themselves in earlier.

Quality over from Boult. Came over the wicket, around, then back over wicket & asked some serious questions of Saha. India 151-6 #INDvNZ ^WN

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

Quality over from Boult. Came over the wicket, around, then back over wicket & asked some serious questions of Saha. India 151-6 #INDvNZ ^WN

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

You could almost hear Rohit Sharma say "If the ball is there to be pulled, I will pull. It's my shot" as he hit that six. #INDvNZ

— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) October 2, 2016

You could almost hear Rohit Sharma say "If the ball is there to be pulled, I will pull. It's my shot" as he hit that six. #INDvNZ

— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) October 2, 2016

After 40 overs, India 143/6 (Rohit Sharma 36, Wriddhiman Saha 17); lead by 255 runs

Rohit has a lucky escape after lofting a flighted delivery from Santner towards long-off, with Boult failing to hold on near the boundary despite a brave dive. Rohit pulls a short ball from Boult over square-leg to stretch India’s lead past the 250-run mark.

After 40 overs, India 143/6 (Rohit Sharma 36, Wriddhiman Saha 17); lead by 255 runs

Rohit has a lucky escape after lofting a flighted delivery from Santner towards long-off, with Boult failing to hold on near the boundary despite a brave dive. Rohit pulls a short ball from Boult over square-leg to stretch India’s lead past the 250-run mark.

The highest 4th inngs total by a visiting team at Eden Gardens is 233 by Eng in 1961 (lost by 187 runs).
India lead by 237 runs now.#INDvNZ

— Deepu Narayanan (@deeputalks) October 2, 2016

The highest 4th inngs total by a visiting team at Eden Gardens is 233 by Eng in 1961 (lost by 187 runs).
India lead by 237 runs now.#INDvNZ

— Deepu Narayanan (@deeputalks) October 2, 2016

After 35 overs, India 125/6 (Rohit Sharma 22, Wriddhiman Saha 13); lead by 237 runs

Saha comes down the track, and lofts Santner over Trent Boult at mid-on to release some pressure of his back. Meanwhile, Ronchi has taken over the wicketkeeping duties from BJ Watling. Not sure what’s up with the latter.

After 35 overs, India 125/6 (Rohit Sharma 22, Wriddhiman Saha 13); lead by 237 runs

Saha comes down the track, and lofts Santner over Trent Boult at mid-on to release some pressure of his back. Meanwhile, Ronchi has taken over the wicketkeeping duties from BJ Watling. Not sure what’s up with the latter.

Too many balls keeping low at the far end already. 250 will be an interesting fourth innings' chase. Need a few more to be safe. #IndvNZ

— Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) October 2, 2016

Too many balls keeping low at the far end already. 250 will be an interesting fourth innings' chase. Need a few more to be safe. #IndvNZ

— Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) October 2, 2016

And its tea on Day 3 of the 2nd Test between India and New Zealand at the Eden Gardens, with the hosts crawling their way to 110 at the end of the session. Saha, who joins Rohit at the crease, gets off the mark with a flourishing cover drive off Santner. India have a lead of 222 at the moment, and with two reliable batsmen at the centre, could look at setting a target past 250, which could be a challenge for the Kiwis given the deteriorating conditions.

And its tea on Day 3 of the 2nd Test between India and New Zealand at the Eden Gardens, with the hosts crawling their way to 110 at the end of the session. Saha, who joins Rohit at the crease, gets off the mark with a flourishing cover drive off Santner. India have a lead of 222 at the moment, and with two reliable batsmen at the centre, could look at setting a target past 250, which could be a challenge for the Kiwis given the deteriorating conditions.

OUT! Santner gets his victim in just his 2nd over! Pitched along middle, the ball straightens and brushes Ashwin’s pad before deflecting off his bat. The umpire raises his finger almost immediately. India lose their sixth wicket with 106 on board, and have put up their poorest performance with the bat so far in the series.

Ravichandran Ashwin lbw Mitchell Santner 5(23)

OUT! Santner gets his victim in just his 2nd over! Pitched along middle, the ball straightens and brushes Ashwin’s pad before deflecting off his bat. The umpire raises his finger almost immediately. India lose their sixth wicket with 106 on board, and have put up their poorest performance with the bat so far in the series.

Ravichandran Ashwin lbw Mitchell Santner 5(23)

After 30 overs, India 105/5 (Rohit Sharma 19, Ravichandran Ashwin 5); lead by 217 runs

Rohit and Ashwin are somewhat struggling to get runs at the moment, with Ashwin nearly getting dismissed after prodding a Wagner delivery towards mid-off, just short of the fielder. Mitch Santner is introduced into the attack for the first time this innings in the 29th over, and gets vicious turn in one of the deliveries.

After 30 overs, India 105/5 (Rohit Sharma 19, Ravichandran Ashwin 5); lead by 217 runs

Rohit and Ashwin are somewhat struggling to get runs at the moment, with Ashwin nearly getting dismissed after prodding a Wagner delivery towards mid-off, just short of the fielder. Mitch Santner is introduced into the attack for the first time this innings in the 29th over, and gets vicious turn in one of the deliveries.

After 26 overs, India 100/5 (Rohit Sharma 16, Ravichandran Ashwin 3); lead by 212 runs

Ashwin walks out to bat after Kohli’s unfortunate dismissal, with Rohit yet to take off at the other end barring a lofty six off Patel’s bowling. The 100 comes up for India after Boult concedes four byes, with the ball moving square after pitching outside off, and beating the keeper on its way to the third man boundary.

After 26 overs, India 100/5 (Rohit Sharma 16, Ravichandran Ashwin 3); lead by 212 runs

Ashwin walks out to bat after Kohli’s unfortunate dismissal, with Rohit yet to take off at the other end barring a lofty six off Patel’s bowling. The 100 comes up for India after Boult concedes four byes, with the ball moving square after pitching outside off, and beating the keeper on its way to the third man boundary.

@imVkohli falls to ball keeping cruelly low. Delight of Kiwis will be diluted with how the pitch is playing. Have to bat last here...

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) October 2, 2016

@imVkohli falls to ball keeping cruelly low. Delight of Kiwis will be diluted with how the pitch is playing. Have to bat last here...

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) October 2, 2016

Tendulkaresque crouching lbw

— Nitin Sundar🎙️✒️🎦 (@knittins) October 2, 2016

Tendulkaresque crouching lbw

— Nitin Sundar🎙️✒️🎦 (@knittins) October 2, 2016

OUT! And that surely is a disappointing dismissal for Kohli, who is undone by the uneven bounce. Pitched outside off by Boult, the ball barely rises above his showlaces, jagging into the batsman and rapping him between middle and off. Kohli crouches in Tendulkar-like fashion, and is mighty disappointed to have been dismissed this way after looking set for a big score!

Virat Kohli lbw Trent Boult 45(65)

OUT! And that surely is a disappointing dismissal for Kohli, who is undone by the uneven bounce. Pitched outside off by Boult, the ball barely rises above his showlaces, jagging into the batsman and rapping him between middle and off. Kohli crouches in Tendulkar-like fashion, and is mighty disappointed to have been dismissed this way after looking set for a big score!

Virat Kohli lbw Trent Boult 45(65)

This could be the innings that India needed from Kohli to kick start his domestic season.

— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) October 2, 2016

This could be the innings that India needed from Kohli to kick start his domestic season.

— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) October 2, 2016

After 20 overs, India 89/4 (Virat Kohli 44, Rohit Sharma 14); lead by 201 runs

Kohli and Rohit are batting impressively right now, especially the former. Under pressure after a barrage of wickets after lunch, Kohli unleashes an array of drives all over the park, including a beauty down the ground off Wagner’s bowling. Rohit doesn’t do much at the other end, barring a majestic six off a slog-sweep off Jeetan Patel.

After 20 overs, India 89/4 (Virat Kohli 44, Rohit Sharma 14); lead by 201 runs

Kohli and Rohit are batting impressively right now, especially the former. Under pressure after a barrage of wickets after lunch, Kohli unleashes an array of drives all over the park, including a beauty down the ground off Wagner’s bowling. Rohit doesn’t do much at the other end, barring a majestic six off a slog-sweep off Jeetan Patel.

Spanking on drives from Virat in the last two overs... one down the ground was a beauty! #IndvNZ

— Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) October 2, 2016

Spanking on drives from Virat in the last two overs... one down the ground was a beauty! #IndvNZ

— Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) October 2, 2016

Rahane falls, top-edging Henry to fine leg. Loose shot. Two & half days still in this Test, what's the hurry? Virat & Rohit have to rebuild

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) October 2, 2016

Rahane falls, top-edging Henry to fine leg. Loose shot. Two & half days still in this Test, what's the hurry? Virat & Rohit have to rebuild

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) October 2, 2016

After 15 overs, India 53/4 (Virat Kohli 20, Rohit Sharma 3); lead by 165 runs

The Indians are going through hell right now, thanks to some brilliant utilisation of the conditions by the Kiwi pacers! Heavy burden on Kohli and Rohit’s shoulders, as they barely manage to scrape past the 50-run mark for the loss of four wickets. The duo should look to keep things steady for the remainder of the session before starting to go for the boundaries.

After 15 overs, India 53/4 (Virat Kohli 20, Rohit Sharma 3); lead by 165 runs

The Indians are going through hell right now, thanks to some brilliant utilisation of the conditions by the Kiwi pacers! Heavy burden on Kohli and Rohit’s shoulders, as they barely manage to scrape past the 50-run mark for the loss of four wickets. The duo should look to keep things steady for the remainder of the session before starting to go for the boundaries.

Three and a half collapses in four innings.... at home. Thats something! #IndvNZ

— Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) October 2, 2016

Three and a half collapses in four innings.... at home. Thats something! #IndvNZ

— Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) October 2, 2016

OUT! And the wickets keep tumbling for the hosts now! Short ball outside off, Rahane looks to pull this one, but gets a top-edge in what turns out to be a half-hearted attempt, with Trent Boult taking the catch near deep fine-leg! India lose their fourth wicket with 43 on board, and Henry gets his third!

Ajinkya Rahane c Trent Boult b Matt Henry 1(5)

OUT! And the wickets keep tumbling for the hosts now! Short ball outside off, Rahane looks to pull this one, but gets a top-edge in what turns out to be a half-hearted attempt, with Trent Boult taking the catch near deep fine-leg! India lose their fourth wicket with 43 on board, and Henry gets his third!

Ajinkya Rahane c Trent Boult b Matt Henry 1(5)

The Pujara wicket on https://t.co/PkPDK5A1tc Match Centre. Not even close.#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/iDrsRdFJ2q

— Moulin (@Moulinparikh) October 2, 2016

The Pujara wicket on https://t.co/PkPDK5A1tc Match Centre. Not even close.#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/iDrsRdFJ2q

— Moulin (@Moulinparikh) October 2, 2016

After 11 overs, India 34/3 (Virat Kohli 5, Ajinkya Rahane 0); lead by 146 runs

India are in deep trouble after Boult traps Dhawan lbw with one that angles into the batsman’s pads. Dhawan looked to play it down the leg side, but was late in getting the bat down, getting rapped between middle and leg. Departs for 17 after a couple of well-timed strokes through the covers, as India lose their third wicket with 34 on board. 

Shikhar Dhawan lbw Trent Boult 17(32)

After 11 overs, India 34/3 (Virat Kohli 5, Ajinkya Rahane 0); lead by 146 runs

India are in deep trouble after Boult traps Dhawan lbw with one that angles into the batsman’s pads. Dhawan looked to play it down the leg side, but was late in getting the bat down, getting rapped between middle and leg. Departs for 17 after a couple of well-timed strokes through the covers, as India lose their third wicket with 34 on board. 

Shikhar Dhawan lbw Trent Boult 17(32)

Horrible decision.#IndvNZ #IndvsNZ https://t.co/UhVBNgoUWA

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

Horrible decision.#IndvNZ #IndvsNZ https://t.co/UhVBNgoUWA

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

OUT! Henry strikes again, this time removing the dangerous Pujara, denying him his fourth consecutive fifty! Pitched outside leg, the ball jags into the batsman’s pad, and replays suggest the ball might have been missing the leg-stump by a whisker. 

Cheteshwar Pujara lbw Matt Henry 4(7)

OUT! Henry strikes again, this time removing the dangerous Pujara, denying him his fourth consecutive fifty! Pitched outside leg, the ball jags into the batsman’s pad, and replays suggest the ball might have been missing the leg-stump by a whisker. 

Cheteshwar Pujara lbw Matt Henry 4(7)

Henry’s got some support back home.

Yes @Matthenry014! Cmon @BLACKCAPS #indvsnz

— Grant Elliott (@grantelliottnz) October 2, 2016

Henry’s got some support back home.

Yes @Matthenry014! Cmon @BLACKCAPS #indvsnz

— Grant Elliott (@grantelliottnz) October 2, 2016

OUT! Henry strikes right after lunch, and it is another beauty of a delivery that removes the in-form Vijay, who records a disappointing outing at Eden! A near repeat of the 1st innings dismissal — back-of-length along off, with Vijay getting a nick off his bat to Guptill in the slips; India 12/1

Murali Vijay c Martin Guptill b Matt Henry 7(15)

OUT! Henry strikes right after lunch, and it is another beauty of a delivery that removes the in-form Vijay, who records a disappointing outing at Eden! A near repeat of the 1st innings dismissal — back-of-length along off, with Vijay getting a nick off his bat to Guptill in the slips; India 12/1

Murali Vijay c Martin Guptill b Matt Henry 7(15)

Dhawan & short-leg chatting with each other like they are at a 'chai ka theyla'.#IndvNZ #indvsnz

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

Dhawan & short-leg chatting with each other like they are at a 'chai ka theyla'.#IndvNZ #indvsnz

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

After 5 overs, India 12/0 (Murali Vijay 7, Shikhar Dhawan 4); lead by 124 runs.

The Indians walk out to bat, and opener Dhawan cops a painful blow on his left thumb off Boult’s bowling. Bit of an injury break, with Dhawan taking a while to recover from the pain, before getting hit on the same finger by the same bowler a few deliveries later. This time a nastier blow, with the batsman being greeted with some unexpected bounce. No prizes for guessing New Zealand’s strategy to the southpaw opener. However, he manages to execute a fine drive through cover off Henry to get off the mark. And its lunch on Day 3, with the hosts stretching their lead to 124 at the end of what has been a turbulent session. 

After 5 overs, India 12/0 (Murali Vijay 7, Shikhar Dhawan 4); lead by 124 runs.

The Indians walk out to bat, and opener Dhawan cops a painful blow on his left thumb off Boult’s bowling. Bit of an injury break, with Dhawan taking a while to recover from the pain, before getting hit on the same finger by the same bowler a few deliveries later. This time a nastier blow, with the batsman being greeted with some unexpected bounce. No prizes for guessing New Zealand’s strategy to the southpaw opener. However, he manages to execute a fine drive through cover off Henry to get off the mark. And its lunch on Day 3, with the hosts stretching their lead to 124 at the end of what has been a turbulent session. 

That said, once this pitch starts turning, might get more difficult to bat on than it was in Kanpur's 2nd innings.#IndvNZ #INDvsNZ

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

That said, once this pitch starts turning, might get more difficult to bat on than it was in Kanpur's 2nd innings.#IndvNZ #INDvsNZ

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

Lets see how the Indian batsmen respond in their second essay. For now, they’ll look to stretch their lead within the 300-run range till the end of the day’s play.

Lets see how the Indian batsmen respond in their second essay. For now, they’ll look to stretch their lead within the 300-run range till the end of the day’s play.

8 wickets for Indian seamers. Ganguly clearly knew what he was talking about pitch not taking turn on first 2-3 days.#IndvsNZ #IndvNZ

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

8 wickets for Indian seamers. Ganguly clearly knew what he was talking about pitch not taking turn on first 2-3 days.#IndvsNZ #IndvNZ

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

OUT! Neil Wagner is trapped lbw by Mohammed Shami, who grabs his third wicket with the dismissal! Wagner, who earlier hammered a six over backward square-leg, is beaten for pace with a Shami delivery that sticks to its line along the off-stump. The umpire doesn’t hesitate in raising the finger. The Black Caps end up conceding a 112-run lead. 

Neil Wagner lbw Mohammed Shami 10(18)

OUT! Neil Wagner is trapped lbw by Mohammed Shami, who grabs his third wicket with the dismissal! Wagner, who earlier hammered a six over backward square-leg, is beaten for pace with a Shami delivery that sticks to its line along the off-stump. The umpire doesn’t hesitate in raising the finger. The Black Caps end up conceding a 112-run lead. 

Neil Wagner lbw Mohammed Shami 10(18)

SIX! Neil Wagner brings up the 200 for NZ with a pull off a snorter from Mohammed Shami! The Black Caps tail has largely wagged this morning.

SIX! Neil Wagner brings up the 200 for NZ with a pull off a snorter from Mohammed Shami! The Black Caps tail has largely wagged this morning.

OUT! Shami traps Watling lbw for 25, and that should nearly signal the end of the New Zealand innings! Fine display of reverse-swing by Shami, with the half-volley pitching along off before angling into the batsman’s leg-stump. Looking to play towards the leg side, Watling fails to execute the stroke on time and is beaten for pace. 

BJ Watling lbw Mohammed Shami 25(67)

OUT! Shami traps Watling lbw for 25, and that should nearly signal the end of the New Zealand innings! Fine display of reverse-swing by Shami, with the half-volley pitching along off before angling into the batsman’s leg-stump. Looking to play towards the leg side, Watling fails to execute the stroke on time and is beaten for pace. 

BJ Watling lbw Mohammed Shami 25(67)

After 50 overs, New Zealand 187/8 (BJ Watling 25, Neil Wagner 1); trail by 129

The last five overs have been among the most eventful in the match so far. Not only did Patel hammer three boundaries and earn a reprieve off a Jadeja lbw courtesy a no-ball in the 46th over, but he falls victim to a drifting delivery from Ashwin in the latter’s first ball of the day. Wagner walks out to bat, with Watling hoping to do a Saha, and add a few more valuable runs. Patel’s lively strokes has helped bring some balance back into the game that was looking like a one-way street on Day 2.

After 50 overs, New Zealand 187/8 (BJ Watling 25, Neil Wagner 1); trail by 129

The last five overs have been among the most eventful in the match so far. Not only did Patel hammer three boundaries and earn a reprieve off a Jadeja lbw courtesy a no-ball in the 46th over, but he falls victim to a drifting delivery from Ashwin in the latter’s first ball of the day. Wagner walks out to bat, with Watling hoping to do a Saha, and add a few more valuable runs. Patel’s lively strokes has helped bring some balance back into the game that was looking like a one-way street on Day 2.

At 49.60 mph Ashwin's delivery that dismissed Patel was the slowest ball of the day so far. #IndvNZ

— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) October 2, 2016

At 49.60 mph Ashwin's delivery that dismissed Patel was the slowest ball of the day so far. #IndvNZ

— The CricViz Analyst (@cricvizanalyst) October 2, 2016

OUT! No no-ball issues this time, as Ashwin’s introduction into the attack at this stage works brilliantly for the hosts. A little rush of blood by Patel, who looks to slog it over the leg side, but ends up sending it high up in the air with a bottom-edge. Shami takes an easy catch between mid-off and mid-on.

Jeetan Patel c Mohammed Shami b Ravichandran Ashwin 47(47)

OUT! No no-ball issues this time, as Ashwin’s introduction into the attack at this stage works brilliantly for the hosts. A little rush of blood by Patel, who looks to slog it over the leg side, but ends up sending it high up in the air with a bottom-edge. Shami takes an easy catch between mid-off and mid-on.

Jeetan Patel c Mohammed Shami b Ravichandran Ashwin 47(47)

Highest scores by NZ batsmen batting at No.6 or lower @ Eden Gardens:
105 B Taylor,1965
47* J PATEL*
43 Pollard,1965
43 Vivian,1965#INDvNZ

— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) October 2, 2016

Highest scores by NZ batsmen batting at No.6 or lower @ Eden Gardens:
105 B Taylor,1965
47* J PATEL*
43 Pollard,1965
43 Vivian,1965#INDvNZ

— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) October 2, 2016

Dramatic 46th over by Ravindra Jadeja, with Patel hammering three strokeful boundaries off the left-arm spinner to move to 47, bringing up the 50-stand with Watling, before getting trapped lbw by the latter! However, replays show Jadeja overstepping, and Patel earns a reprieve on 47.

Dramatic 46th over by Ravindra Jadeja, with Patel hammering three strokeful boundaries off the left-arm spinner to move to 47, bringing up the 50-stand with Watling, before getting trapped lbw by the latter! However, replays show Jadeja overstepping, and Patel earns a reprieve on 47.

After 45 overs, New Zealand 169/7 (BJ Watling 21, Jeetan Patel 35); trail by 147

A passing shower causes a bit of an interruption at the Eden, though the break lasts less than five minutes. Kudos to the groundstaff for their promptness though. Meanwhile, Patel has climbed to his highest Test score, and is starting to look increasingly settled at the crease.

After 45 overs, New Zealand 169/7 (BJ Watling 21, Jeetan Patel 35); trail by 147

A passing shower causes a bit of an interruption at the Eden, though the break lasts less than five minutes. Kudos to the groundstaff for their promptness though. Meanwhile, Patel has climbed to his highest Test score, and is starting to look increasingly settled at the crease.

Well the shower never came and the cover have been hurriedly removed. Players back out there. RESUME! 163-7 #INDvNZ ^WN

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

Well the shower never came and the cover have been hurriedly removed. Players back out there. RESUME! 163-7 #INDvNZ ^WN

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

Confusing scenes out here at the Eden Gardens. Ravi Jadeja nearly bowls the third ball of the 44th over when the umpire Kettleborough stops him, and decides to halt play for a bit due to a passing shower. That leads to an intense chat between Kohli and the umpires, as the groundstaff bring out the giant covers. The interrruption of play lasts barely a few minutes, with the sun coming out shortly after. The covers were probably a preventive measure.

Confusing scenes out here at the Eden Gardens. Ravi Jadeja nearly bowls the third ball of the 44th over when the umpire Kettleborough stops him, and decides to halt play for a bit due to a passing shower. That leads to an intense chat between Kohli and the umpires, as the groundstaff bring out the giant covers. The interrruption of play lasts barely a few minutes, with the sun coming out shortly after. The covers were probably a preventive measure.

Covers coming out as a shower looms. Good start for NZ this morn - 36 runs added for no wicket. Patel 35* & Watling *17. 163-7 #INDvNZ ^WN pic.twitter.com/D3Yw2RkKgk

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

Covers coming out as a shower looms. Good start for NZ this morn - 36 runs added for no wicket. Patel 35* & Watling *17. 163-7 #INDvNZ ^WN pic.twitter.com/D3Yw2RkKgk

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

These 1st 40 minutes or so an indicator how crucial that last session, 2nd day, was for India. Three wickets for nothing.#IndvsNZ #IndvNZ

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

These 1st 40 minutes or so an indicator how crucial that last session, 2nd day, was for India. Three wickets for nothing.#IndvsNZ #IndvNZ

— Suneer (@suneerchowdhary) October 2, 2016

Here you go guys! Enjoy!

.@virendersehwag rings the bell to start the proceedings at Eden Gardens on Day 3 of #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/vCHtuS0N2B

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 2, 2016

Here you go guys! Enjoy!

.@virendersehwag rings the bell to start the proceedings at Eden Gardens on Day 3 of #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/vCHtuS0N2B

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 2, 2016

After 40 overs, New Zealand 157/7 (BJ Watling 14, Jeetan Patel 32); trail by 159

Jeetan Patel signals his intent at the start of the day’s play, driving a half-volley from Bhuvneshwar towards extra-cover off the first ball of the day. Hits a couple more in the course of his innings. BJ Watling, who is the last recognised batsman for the Black Caps, survives a run-out chance, thanks to an energetic dive towards the non-striker’s end. Spin is introduced in the 40th over, with Jadeja being handed the ball, and is welcomed with a boundary by Patel.

After 40 overs, New Zealand 157/7 (BJ Watling 14, Jeetan Patel 32); trail by 159

Jeetan Patel signals his intent at the start of the day’s play, driving a half-volley from Bhuvneshwar towards extra-cover off the first ball of the day. Hits a couple more in the course of his innings. BJ Watling, who is the last recognised batsman for the Black Caps, survives a run-out chance, thanks to an energetic dive towards the non-striker’s end. Spin is introduced in the 40th over, with Jadeja being handed the ball, and is welcomed with a boundary by Patel.

BJ Watling with a full-length dive & bat slide to make it home for a couple. Perfect example of how to make your ground. 137-7 #INDvNZ ^WN

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

BJ Watling with a full-length dive & bat slide to make it home for a couple. Perfect example of how to make your ground. 137-7 #INDvNZ ^WN

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

FOUR! First ball of the day, with Bhuvneshwar firing a half-volley between middle and off. Jeetan Patel drives it down the ground, wide off the mid-off fielder.

FOUR! First ball of the day, with Bhuvneshwar firing a half-volley between middle and off. Jeetan Patel drives it down the ground, wide off the mid-off fielder.

This could very well break the internet today. 

And its @virendersehwag who signals the start of Day 3 by ringing the bell

Live: https://t.co/XubMyZyEpN #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/b4X1AXU0mf

— Firstpost Sports (@FirstpostSports) October 2, 2016

This could very well break the internet today. 

And its @virendersehwag who signals the start of Day 3 by ringing the bell

Live: https://t.co/XubMyZyEpN #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/b4X1AXU0mf

— Firstpost Sports (@FirstpostSports) October 2, 2016

Day 2 clearly belonged to the ‘Men-in-Blue’. Will the third day also turn out the same. 

A lot of positive vibes in the blue huddle. Day 3 action starts soon #TeamIndia #INDvNZ @Paytm Test Cricket pic.twitter.com/OOfoQIUsYC

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 2, 2016

Day 2 clearly belonged to the ‘Men-in-Blue’. Will the third day also turn out the same. 

A lot of positive vibes in the blue huddle. Day 3 action starts soon #TeamIndia #INDvNZ @Paytm Test Cricket pic.twitter.com/OOfoQIUsYC

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 2, 2016

Pitch report (Aakash Chopra and VVS Laxman): Cracks have widened and the corners have also started crumbling. The cracks have become very loose. Batsman shouldn’t think too much about the wicket. However, they could do themselves a favour with the front foot.

Pitch report (Aakash Chopra and VVS Laxman): Cracks have widened and the corners have also started crumbling. The cracks have become very loose. Batsman shouldn’t think too much about the wicket. However, they could do themselves a favour with the front foot.

The heat is up at the Eden Gardens. Looks like it will be another testing day for the players. 

Boys warming up ahead of day three in Kolkata. It's hot again, very hot! #INDvNZ ^WN pic.twitter.com/wB1iSSf8Ny

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

The heat is up at the Eden Gardens. Looks like it will be another testing day for the players. 

Boys warming up ahead of day three in Kolkata. It's hot again, very hot! #INDvNZ ^WN pic.twitter.com/wB1iSSf8Ny

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 2, 2016

Hello and welcome to the Live coverage of 3rd Day of the 2nd Test between India and New Zealand at Kolkata. India are in a commanding position with a lead of just under 200. The visitors have just three 1st innings wickets left. Can India strengthen their grip on the game close in on a series win. Catch all the Live updates here

Hello and welcome to the Live coverage of 3rd Day of the 2nd Test between India and New Zealand at Kolkata. India are in a commanding position with a lead of just under 200. The visitors have just three 1st innings wickets left. Can India strengthen their grip on the game close in on a series win. Catch all the Live updates here