Sat Nov 02 20:06:02 UTC 2024: ## India Confident of Chasing Down Target Despite New Zealand Lead in Mumbai Test
**MUMBAI, INDIA:** Despite trailing by 143 runs with one wicket remaining at the end of Day 2 in the third Test, Indian batsman Shubman Gill has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to chase down any target set by New Zealand.
Gill, who top-scored for India in the first innings with 90 runs, highlighted the importance of a strong partnership in the chase. “It’s all about one good partnership,” he stated, “If we have one good partnership of 70-80 runs, then the match is done.”
Gill, who forged a crucial 96-run partnership with Rishabh Pant on Day 2, believes that such a partnership can demoralize the opposition and shift the momentum in India’s favor. “When you have that 70-80 run partnership, even for the fielding team, the body language drops,” he observed.
While acknowledging the challenging nature of the pitch, Gill maintained that India will approach the chase with a calculated strategy. “It’s all about being calculative,” he said, “Every batter will have their personal plans, which will align with the team plan.”
India are currently in a strong position to avoid a series whitewash. Despite New Zealand’s series victory, crucial World Test Championship points are at stake, and Gill emphasized the importance of this match. “Each and every match we play is critical,” he asserted, “We’re going to come with full intensity and play as best as we can.”
The third Test continues on Day 3 with India needing to bat with resilience and chase down a challenging target to salvage some pride in the series.
First Piper 