Wellington: A victory is beyond them but New Zealand coach Andy Moles is hopeful that his boys could still pull off a draw in the third and final cricket Test against India at the Basin Reserve.

"History will suggest that there are not too many sides who have come successful in this situation," a candid Moles said after the third day's play.

"One of the things that I have spoken to the guys when I first started against the West Indies is that we have to recognise the time when you have got to learn how to draw a Test match.

"This one is shaping into a battle to save the match. They are proud of their performance and they know that they haven't played well in the first innings. This is an opportunity to go out there and score some big runs. So they are looking forward to the opportunity," said Moles.

India have already stretched their lead to a mammoth 531 runs with five wickets in hand.

One of the highlights of third day's play was Rahul Dravid's dismissal effected by Brendon McCullum who anticipated the Indian's pre-meditated paddle sweep and quickly moved to his left to pouch the ball.

Commenting on McCullum's stunning effort, Moles said, "It wasn't planned. It was good improvisation by Brendon. I think he saw the shot two or three times before and he just went on gut instinct. He is innovative in the way he plays his cricket. He is a livewire and it was quite wonderful piece of judgment by him."