New Zealand overnight batters held firm on day 5 pitch as Indian bowlers still seek the first wicket of the day after the morning session here in Green Park Stadium, Kanpur.
Resuming the day at 4/1, Nightwatchman William Somerville and Tom Latham displayed strong defensive skills right from the first over. India started with R Ashwin and Umesh Yadav.
With the pitch being slow, the batters had a good time reacting to the ball, especially against the pacers. While Latham kept his bat dead while Somerville tried to create a few opportunities to keep the scoreboard ticking.
The pitch doesn't have many demons in it but it is keeping low at times. The trio of Ashwin, Axar, and Jadeja have kept the bowl in the right areas to create enough chances so far.
Latham(35*) and Somerville(36*) have so far looked solid to add 76 runs for the second wicket. New Zealand need 205 runs to win with two sessions left.
Brief Scorecard:
New Zealand - 79/1