Skipper Brendon McCullum paves the way for big total with 2nd double ton against India

New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum continued from where he left off on Day 1 to score a double ton -- his second against India.  (Scorecard | Highlights | Final report | Pics)

McCullum became the central force for the Kiwis after they were reeling at 30/3 early on Thursday. He added 221 runs with Kane Williamson (113) for the fourth wicket and followed it up with a 133-run stand with Corey Anderson (77) for the fifth to frustrate the Indian bowlers and lay the platform for a mammoth first innings total.

 

All along his innings, McCullum was offered a lot of short deliveries and width outside the off-stump which he gladly accepted with open arms, cutting and pulling at will. Another important feature of this amazing effort is the fact that he has scored it off 280 balls at a strike-rate of 72.14. His knock included 28 fours and 3 sixes. He reached it with a boundary of the last ball before lunch as New Zealand ended the first session at 473/7. (Ishant Sharma records his second-best bowling figures in Tests)

McCullum's charge has put the Kiwis in an advantageous position and he looks set to pile further misery on the Indians by ensuring that his side gets a huge score. He was the last man out for 224 as the innings finally ended at 503 for the hosts.