Cricket: Sehwag gives quick answer to NZ

New Zealand did not have to wait long to learn the enormity of their task in the test cricket series against India.

A big century from Virender Sehwag placed the hosts in the box seat after the first day of the first test at Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The 32-year-old hit a stylish 173 to pilot India to a formidable 329 for three, helped by Rahul Dravid, who contributed a workmanlike 104.

The Indians will resume today seeking to bat the tourists out of the match with Sachin Tendulkar on 13 and chasing an unprecedented 50th test century, and VVS Laxman on 7.

New Zealand were on the back foot as soon as Indian skipper MS Dhoni won the toss and predictably chose to bat on a featherbed of a pitch.

Sehwag was insatiable, going hard at the bowling from the outset.

After part-time medium pacer Jesse Ryder dismissed Gautam Gambhir for 21 in the 12th over of the morning, New Zealand were reduced to the role of ball chasers as Sehwag and Dravid imposed themselves.

Sehwag, who was dropped on 144 and 155, finally departed midway through the final session when he played a tired stroke to New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori and saw the ball deflect off his pad on to the stumps.

Sehwag's 22nd test century contained 24 fours and one six and came off 199 deliveries.

Dravid, picked up the pace after a slow start and required 216 balls and 246 minutes for his 30th test hundred.

He fell victim to the second new ball 30 minutes before the close of play when he dragged a ball from fast bowler Chris Martin on to his stumps.

- NZPA