NEW DELHI: Indian wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav expressed his observations regarding the pitch conditions on Friday, stating that it has begun to provide some assistance to the spinners.
He also conveyed his confidence in the Indian batsmen to establish a substantial lead in their second innings, which would enable the spinners to make a significant impact on the match.
"The spinners were getting some help when we were bowling, and hopefully, we will get more spin on Day 5. But for that, we need a good total to defend," said Kuldeep in the post-day press meet.
"Considering our bowling attack, we will be aiming at setting an effective target. We can't predict a proper total right now as a lot of batting is still left for us," he added.
India vs New Zealand Test: Focus returns on India batters after high-scoring day
Kuldeep expressed his desire for Sarfaraz Khan, currently unbeaten on 70, to accumulate a substantial score when play resumes on Saturday.
"We all saw how he scored 200 during the Irani Trophy. We're hoping that he slams another here. Since he is playing for India, his technique does not matter as long as the runs keep coming.
"However, he has a good technique against the spinners and doesn't let them settle down. I always feel that if a batter does not allow a spinner to settle down, he is a true batter.
"The way he was counter-attacking the left-arm spinners forced them (NZ) to bring in the pacers," said Kuldeep.
The left-arm wrist spinner, who took three wickets against the Kiwis, praised
Rachin Ravindra
for his outstanding century.
"He's batted really well. I did miss the chance of taking his wicket a couple of times. But overall, he is a great player and has improved a lot in the last two years.
"He has a good batting technique and looks comfortable against the spinners. But I just hope he doesn't bat so well in the remaining contests against us," said Kuldeep, who had taken 3/99 in 18.3 overs.
Ravindra and Tim Southee forged a crucial 137-run partnership for the eighth wicket, helping New Zealand reach 402 in their first innings and establishing a significant lead of 356 runs.
"My plan was simple -- get them (Rachin-Southee) out anyhow. Southee was lucky to have survived quite some close chances, but he did bat well and added valuable runs for his team. My focus was mainly bowling on the good length," he added.
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