22 Nov 2010

Blackcaps battling for draw in third and final test

6:50 am on 22 November 2010

The New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee is dismissing suggestions the Blackcaps have failed in their strategy to try and contain the Indian batsmen after the hosts took firm control of the third and deciding test in Nagpur.

India jumped out to 292 for 2 at stumps on day two with a 99 run lead on the back of half centuries from openers Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir after bowling the Blackcaps out for a measly 193 in the first innings.

Southee concedes the Blackcaps bowlers failed miserably in their attempt to curtail the rampant Indian openers but he says the Blackcaps' strategy is sound.

Play resumes on day three at about 5pm.