Lower-order batsman Harbhajan (115) and the ever-dependable Laxman (91) batted for the major part of the first two sessions on the final day, which India resumed at 82 for six, a lead of 110.

India was all out for 266 shortly after tea, setting an improbable 295-run target for New Zealand in 24 overs. New Zealand was 22 for one in its second innings when play ended at the Sardar Patel Stadium.