6 Apr 2009

Indian cricketers on top

5:53 am on 6 April 2009

Gautam Gambhir virtually ensured India will win their first test series in New Zealand since 1968 when he guided his side to an imposing 531-run lead at the close of play on the third day of the third test at the Basin Reserve.

Gambhir, who scored 137 in the second innings of the drawn second test in Napier, moved from 28 at the start of play to 167 after tea before he was trapped in front by Iain O'Brien after New Zealand had taken the second new ball.

Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is 16 not out while Yuvraj Singh is on 15 with India 349 for five.

India lead the series 1-nil after winning the first match in Hamilton by 10 wickets.