'Can't Predict A Total Now,' Kuldeep Yadav Reveals India's Approach For Day 4 Of 1st Test vs NZ

Kuldeep Yadav boasts confidence ahead of Day 4 (Source: PTI]

Despite India's backs being against the wall, leg spinner Kuldeep Yadav is confident of the hosts setting up an effective total for New Zealand on Day 4 of the Bengaluru Test. He also put the onus on Sarfaraz Khan to convert the half-century into a big score tomorrow.

A 46-run all-out in the first inning didn't dampen India's spirits as they roared back on Day 3 of the first Test against New Zealand at Bengaluru. The Kiwis locked a 356-run lead owing to Rachin Ravindra's hundred and were well placed in the driver's seat. 

However, Rohit Sharma-Yashasvi Jaiswal's aggressive start, followed by a 100-run partnership between Virat Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan, propelled India to 231/3 at the end of Day 3’s play. 

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Kuldeep Yadav Bets On India's Strong Comeback

Interestingly, India are still aiming for a win as Kuldeep Yadav confirmed that his team will be looking forward to setting up a big total on Day 4. He added that a preferable target cannot be determined at this stage as India's batting depth is significant. But irrespective of the situation, India's intent to go for the kill won't change.

"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,” Kuldeep said.

Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav revealed that the team is heavily banking on Sarfaraz Khan owing to his recent form, in which he slammed a double ton in Irani Cup 2024. While playing for India is a different ball game, Kuldeep is confident in Sarfaraz's strong technique against spinners.

"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," he added.

Notably, the hosts are still trailing 125 runs behind New Zealand with two full days of play left on the cards.

Rishabh Pant Likely to Bat On Day 4

In an encouraging sign for the Indian fans, wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant was padded up and resumed training after he skipped the field on Day 3 due to a knee injury sustained on Day 2. Dhruv Jureal toiled hard as a substitute wicket-keeper. However, the early signs are good, as India desperately needs Pant to put quick runs on the board on Day 4.

(Inputs From PTI)

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