Kolkata, Nov. 9 -- India have won the first two ODIs in New Zealand, and the series seems to be nearing its end for them. Except it's not. New Zealand have lost twice in a row, yet the cricket has provided enough intrigue to suggest the series hasn't been one-sided. The third ODI at Hamilton offers an opportunity to make the series closer, purely because of the conditions on offer.

It's been raining in Hamilton, making the pitch preparation an agonisingly slow process. And since it has been under covers for considerable lengths of time, seamers from both sides would be more than happy to give it a go. For India's batters, this could mean a much-needed extended workout after unconvincing performances in the first two one-dayers.

That is ...