The New Zealand A cricketers need 314 runs in the last innings to beat India A in the first match of the two-match series in Chennai.
The hosts' captain Suresh Raina smashed a blazing 146 off 130 balls, including 10 fours and eight sixes, before New Zealand regrouped to trigger a lower-order collapse.
In reply, New Zealand lost BJ Watling early and ended the day on a cautious note at 41 for 1.
India made 336 and 248 in their two innings while the visitors made just 230 and will face a formidable task when the fourth day begins.
