Jamieson puts Kiwis in control with bowling master class

Kyle Jamieson produced a seam-bowling masterclass as New Zealand seized the initiative on day three of the World Test Championship final against India.

The 6ft 8in paceman from Auckland wrapped up sensational figures of five for 31 in 22 relentless overs as India were dismissed for 217 at the Ageas Bowl.

New Zealand then posted 101 for two, with their strong position only mildly dented by Devon Conway's dismissal just two balls before the end of play.

Like Conway, who made 54 to instantly trump every Indian batsman, Jamieson is a rookie at the highest level.

Making just his eighth appearance, this was his fifth five-for and nobody on either side has thus far come close to matching his impact on a contest this being billed by the International Cricket Council as 'The Ultimate Test'.

Jamieson’s haul included the wickets of Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah in consecutive balls.

Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, who foolishly succumbed to Neil Wagner's short-ball trap, top scored with 49 in India's 217 all out.

New Zealand openers Conway and Tom Latham then grittily repelled India's attack, putting on 70 before Latham hit spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to Kohli at short extra cover.

In the day's closing moments, Ishant boosted India by prising out left-hander Conway for 54, two balls before the players were taken off for bad light.

It left the showpiece final tightly poised, with New Zealand slight favourites to be crowned as the International Cricket Council's first Test world champions.

But, more rain is forecast today which, along with the time already lost to the weather, may prevent either side being able to force a win - even with the addition of a sixth day.