IND v NZ, Day 4: India On Top As New Zealand Lose Young While Chasing 284

Shreyas Iyer and Wriddhiman Saha's timely half-centuries helped India finish day 4 on the top as New Zealand lose their first wicket while chasing a target of 284 to win the first test in Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. 

Resuming the day at 14/1, India lost their first wicket in the first half-hour of the play in the form of Cheteshwar Pujara. Kyle Jamieson had until then kept asking questions from Pujara by making him drive the ball. However, on the first occasion Jamieson bounced him, Pujara gloved it to the keeper. 

Ajinkya Rahane couldn't survive much as Ajaz Patel trapped him in front as India lost three wickets inside 15 overs. Four overs later, Tim Southee was rewarded for his discipline as he removed Mayank Agarwal, who scored 17 from 53, and struck Ravindra Jadeja in the front two balls later, leaving India 51/5 in 20 overs. 

First innings centurion Shreyas Iyer and R Ashwin began the rebuilding process where they looked to get runs on every opportunity they got. They ran quick singles and found boundaries to make sure India keep the scoreboard ticking. 

Ashwin, in particular, was the aggressor in the partnership that went above 50 runs. However, New Zealand brought Jamieson back and as usual, he provided an immediate breakthrough. 

Ashwin getting out for 32 meant Iyer again had to form a partnership. Wriddhiman Saha, who didn't field on day 3 due to a stiff neck, came out to bat, and to the surprise of everybody, with a positive approach. 

Saha looked to score runs on every opportunity, easing the pressure off debutant Iyer, who went on to score 65 before getting out at the stroke of Tea. Saha and Iyer added 64 for the seventh wicket in 126 balls. 

In the 3rd session, Saha continued to bat with intent and got good support from Axar Patel as the two added 67 runs for the eigth wicket and push the lead to above 280. With less than 25 minutes left to play, India decided to declare giving Kiwis a target of 284. 

The New Zealand openers came out to bat and India started the innings with spin from both ends. Ashwin got the crucial wicket of Will Young as Indian fielders went back to the pavilion with their heads held high. 

Brief Scorecard: 

India - 345/10 & 234/7 
New Zealand - 296/10 & 4/1