"If I see it realistically, I don't see any hope" - Ajay Jadeja on India's chances of a win in IND vs NZ 2024 1st Test
Ajay Jadeja doesn't see realistic chances of an Indian win in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru. He pointed out that the pitch isn't too spin-friendly and that the hosts don't have a third pacer even if the conditions favor the seamers.
India were bowled out for 462 in their second innings on Day 4 (Saturday, October 19). New Zealand require 107 runs, with all 10 wickets in hand, on the final day to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
During a discussion on Colors Cineplex, Jadeja was asked whether India can bundle out the Kiwis and register a win.
"It's the fifth day but it's not a pitch like that. If the ball seams because of some moisture, the difference is that it's easy for them (New Zealand) considering where they have grown up. Where we have found difficulties, they are used to that, just like we play spin well," he responded.
"If it happens at 107, it's great. However, if I see it realistically, I don't see any hope because it will be moist and you will start with seam in the morning. Even if you get one or two out, you don't have a third seamer if there is help for seam," the former India captain added.
The New Zealand seamers ran through the Indian batting lineup with the second new ball, taking the last seven wickets for just 54 runs. With the pitch potentially getting slightly moist due to heavy rain on Saturday evening, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj might hold the key to India's prospects.
"If they had to get out, it was in my mind that they shouldn't play till the end of the day's play" - Ajay Jadeja on India's batting
![The New Zealand openers had to face only four deliveries before play was called off. [P/C: Getty]](https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/10/9db20-17293491002433-1920.jpg?w=500)
In the same discussion, Ajay Jadeja noted that he was hoping Rohit Sharma's side shouldn't bat till Stumps if they were on the verge of getting all-out.
"Spinners can also take advantage of that but they will reach there somehow. I was excited when they (Indian batters) got out. If they had to get out, it was in my mind that they shouldn't play till the end of the day's play, and five or 10 runs more runs are scored tomorrow," he said.
The cricketer-turned-commentator added that India could have entertained hopes of a win had they struck a few blows before the close of play.
"More than 10 runs, half an hour's play was important. If they had taken two or three wickets today evening, it would have been a different thing. However, only hope is left now," Jadeja observed.
Jasprit Bumrah could bowl only four deliveries in New Zealand's second innings before the umpires stopped proceedings due to bad light. The play was subsequently called off for the day due to heavy rain, with no prospect of light improving.