Ross Taylor, one of the Black Caps two century-makers on the opening day of the second cricket test in Napier, says they need at least 500 first innings runs if they're to be competitive against the free-scoring Indians on an ideal McLean park pitch.
Taylor and Jesse Ryder came together when New Zealand were in deep trouble yesterday at 23 for 3, and their partnership of 271 runs was a record for any NZ wicket against India, steering New Zealand to 351 for 4 at stumps last night.
Taylor was dismissed for 151, Ryder will resume this morning on 137 and James Franklin is 26 not out.
India suffered a setback just before the start of play yesterday when their captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni injured his back during the warmup, and Virender Sehwag is leading the side.
