Coach Denis Aberhart blamed poor batting rather than a bad pitch for New Zealand's record-low collapse on day three of the second Test against India.

Richardson saw New Zealand safely to stumps

The Kiwis were bowled out for 94 - their lowest total against this opponent - in reply to India's 99 in Hamilton.

In 42 Tests against India their previous lowest total was 100 at Wellington in 1980-81.

"The pitch was not easy to bat on, but I don't think it was that bad," said Aberhart.

"It was poor batting by both sides. I'm personally disappointed with our team's batting.

"We lost quite a few wickets to attacking rather than defensive shots. I don't think the pitch really got our guys out."

India were then all out for 154 in their second innings as 22 wickets fell on a dramatic day.

And New Zealand began well in the chase for a total of 160 to win, reaching 24 without loss at the close with Mark Richardson 18 not out.

"A couple of [batsmen] showed that if you really apply yourself, show a lot of patience and do the hard job, you can stay in," Aberhart continued.

Zaheer Khan took a career-best five for 29

"It's pretty exciting to see 22 wickets fall, but ideally we'd like to see more runs scored in a Test."

Fast bowlers Daryl Tuffey and Jacob Oram each bagged four wickets for the hosts and Aberhart said he was pleased with his fast bowlers for bringing the team back into the match.

The coach added that his team needed to bat positively on Sunday to score the 136 more runs required to sweep the two-match series.

"One big partnership is what is needed from here on," he said.

"We are looking for a couple of guys to get in there to put pressure on them."