Magnificent McCullum leads NZ fight back

Scores fighting ton to keep Indian bowlers at bay in Wellington .

New Zealand is fighting hard in the second innings of the Wellington Test against India after the tourists had set their eyes on an innings win on the third day of the match.

The hosts roared back through an unfinished sixth wicket stand of 158 runs between Captain Brendon McCullum and wicket-keeper BJ Watling after India had reduced them to 94 for 5 in the second session of the day.

By close, the two ensured that the tourists would have to bat again, however India is still in the driving seat with New Zealand leading by a mere six runs. One more wicket will expose Black Caps tail with a lot of time at the disposal of MS Dhoni’s men.

On a gripping day of Test cricket the hosts added 228 runs for the loss of four wickets; India made a bright start to the day and sliced through the top and middle order after lunch.

Seamer Zaheer Khan finally found his form, taking three wickets. Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja took a wicket each. Jadeja accounted for the big-hitting Corey Anderson.

The in-form McCullum completed his second century of the series with a determined, stoic effort.

By close, the right-hander had reached 114 off 237, his innings studded with 14 fours and a solitary six.

Watling was the ideal foil for him at the other end; the pugnacious wicket-keeper consumed 208 balls in his dour 52.

Despite the heroics of the two, India remain firm favourites to record a series levelling win.

Published in The Expres Tribune, February 17^th, 2014.

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