'Realistically I don't see any hope': Jadeja bluntly rules out the possibility of India's comeback win against New Zealand

New Zealand need just 107 runs to secure their first Test win on Indian soil since 1988 after India collapsed late on the fourth day despite a spirited fightback from Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant. On the rain-hit day, the game was abandoned early as New Zealand were barely able to begin their chase as poor light forced the referees to intervene.

India, bowled out for a shocking 46 in their first innings – their lowest ever home Test score – showed resilience in the second innings before falling apart. A magnificent 177-run effort between Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant briefly raised hopes. Sarfaraz, who played a stunning knock of 150 from 195 deliveries, recorded his maiden Test century while Pant fell agonizingly short of his own hundred and scored 99.

Khan's innings, marked by 18 boundaries and three sixes, was a masterclass in counter-attacking cricket after India's early collapse. Pant, who was equally aggressive, hammered nine fours and five sixes in a scintillating performance.

However, the resistance ended after New Zealand captured the second new ball before tea, marking the turning point. Tim Southee's sharp bowling broke the crucial partnership as he dismissed Khan, who was held for 150. The bigger blow came when Will O'Rourke, who had been troubling India all along, bowled Pant in the 89th over, triggering India's dramatic collapse.

From a strong position of 344-3, India lost seven wickets for just 54 runs, with O'Rourke and Matt Henry picking three wickets each to dismantle the Indian lower order. O'Rourke's 3-92 included crucial hits from Lokesh Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, while Henry's 3-102 brought the finishing touches and India bowled out for 462 in 99.3 overs.

Former India batsman Ajay Jadeja spoke about India's chances in the game after the batting collapse and said he sees no hopes of a comeback win. Jadeja stressed that India do not have a third player in their XI, which could probably work in New Zealand's favor given the modest competition.

“If it happens at 107, it’s great. However, if I look at it realistically, I don't see any hope as it will be damp and you will start stitching in the morning. Even if you get one or two out, you don’t have a third seamer if there is help for the stitching,” Jadeja added.

Kiwis on the verge of history

New Zealand are now on the brink of history, needing 107 runs to claim a famous victory, but threatening rain and poor light could still influence the result. India, meanwhile, will be hoping for a final twist as they look to defend a low total on the final day.

Should the Kiwis win, it would be their first win on Indian soil since 1988.