NZ given target of 376 runs, starts confidently in 2nd innings

Kolkata: Chasing a rather tough target of 376 runs to win the 2nd cricket test match against India at Eden Gardens ground here, the visiting New Zealand was off to a steady start scoring 55 runs for no loss at the lunch on 4th day.

Resuming from 227 for 8, the Indian team folded its second innings at 263 setting a tough but achievable target on the pitch with uneven bounce. Saha remained unbeaten in the second innings also with his second fifty of the match.

The Kiwis started off confidently and in fact registered the best opening partnership in the series so far. Martin Guptill (24) and Tom Latham (31) were at the crease when the teams went in for the lunch. With five sessions to go and 150 overs to be bowled, the opening pair of black caps has already made a match which at the moment looks slightly tilted in the favour of the hosts.

Brief Scores at lunch on 4th day

• India (1st inninings): 316
• New Zealand( 1st innings): 204 ( J S patel 47, Ross Taylor 36, Ronchi 35, Watling 25 Bhuvneshar kumar 5 for 48 , Shami 3 for 70
• India(2nd innings): 263 (Rohit Sharma 82, Virat Kohli 45 W Saha 58 not out, Henry 3 for 59 , Santner 3 for 60 and Boult 3 for 38)