We can still save the Test match: Mishra

Odds are stacked against them as they trail by a massive 451-run margin but Indian spinner Amit Mishra feels that his side has the character and skills to save the third Test match.

Riding on Alastair Cook's 294-run knock, England scored a massive 710 for seven in reply to India's first innings of 224 all out and threw a strong challenge before the visitors to save the match, series and number one status.

"I am positive we can do it. We have done it before as well. We have good batters and it's a good pitch to bat on. I don't think we would lose this Test," opined Mishra, who took three wickets for 150 runs, from 43 overs.

The little leg-spinner did concede that the wicket was offering spin but said it doesn't have the bounce.

Mishra had great words of praise to speak about England opener Cook, who made a near triple century.

"He showed a lot of patience. We bowled well to him but he batted with determination and did very well for himself and his team. It isn't as if he has been the most patient batsman I've every bowled to. But he batted really well, according to the wicket and conditions."

Mishra bowled no less than nine no-balls during his stint in England's first innings though on Friday he overstepped only once.

"The wicket was very slow and so I was trying a bit harder which led to those no-balls being bowled. But I've learnt my lessons and today's performance was much better."

The lone spinner in India's eleven in this match said he had all along believed England would be a force to reckon with in familiar conditions.

"We were aware they are familiar to their conditions. They've exploited it to the hilt."