New Zealand A still facing uphill battle in India

Jeet Raval has helped give New Zealand A a slim chance against India A. Photo / Getty Images.

A stubborn second-wicket stand between Jeet Raval and Henry Nicholls has given New Zealand A a slim chance of rescuing their four-day match against India A in Vijayawada.

The Kiwis were 104-1 on day three, with seven-Test opener Raval on 41 and skipper Nicholls on 55 in an unbeaten 85-run stand.

New Zealand A, bowled out in quick time for 211 in their first innings, are chasing a target of 236 just to make India A bat again.

Ankit Bawne's unbeaten 162 anchored the Indians to a first innings tally of 447 in 110 overs, with leg spinner Ish Sodhi the best-performed Kiwi bowler in picking up 3-120 off 25 overs.

New Zealand A are struggling for traction in India after falling to an innings and 31-run defeat in their opening first-class match against India A last week.

The two teams will also play five one-day matches, beginning on Friday.

Black Caps coach Mike Hesson is keeping a close eye on the tour as he looks to complete his squad for New Zealand's upcoming tour of the subcontinent.

Hesson last month named an initial nine-strong squad for the tour, which begins in Mumbai with an ODI on October 22, with the remaining six players to come from New Zealand A.