Ponting classes past Pakistan

Continuing in the flow of the series to date, Australia dominated the second day of the third and final Test match against Pakistan at the SCG. Pakistan resumed on 292/9 and were bowled out for 304, with Kamran Akmal (47) the last man out. Glenn McGrath took the wicket and finished with 4/50, as he continued with his spectacular series with the ball.

Replying, Australia reached 340/4 in their first innings when stumps were drawn. The innings was centred around a magnificent unbeaten 155 by captain Ricky Ponting. Striking 23 fours in his 236-ball knock, Ponting registered his maiden hundred as captain, after 20 innings on the job.

Ponting's was not a completely attacking innings, but rather one of clear maturity and thoughtful play, cautious at times but stroking the ball cleanly all the while. He came to the crease early, after Justin Langer (13) was bowled by Naved-ul-Hasan, who was fetching a bit of swing. Alongside Matthew Hayden, 57 runs were added and then the big left-hander was bowled comprehensively by Kaneria for 26.

At lunch the score was 89/2 with Martyn having joined his captain. As play resumed, Ponting continued to play assuredly and Martyn's 2004 form found good footing in the new year. The partnership reached the heights of 174 for the third wicket and the strokeplay was unerringly top class.

Martyn's batted for 67 and then the breakthrough finally came. The legspinner Kaneria, having fetched impressive turn, bounce and showed great persistence, found a way past the bat of Martyn and the stumping was completed by Kamran Akmal. The new man was Michael Clarke, who hit a breezy 35 off 50 balls and then met the same fate as his predecessor.

Joining Ponting at the close was Adam Gilchrist, already with 2 fours and a six amongst his 17 runs. The current partnership is worth 22 and clearly dominated by Gilchrist. Danish Kaneria's figures stand out amongst his piers, claiming 3/106 on the day. Debutant Mohammad Asif, however, was impressive in spurts, despite finishing with 0/48 from his 12 overs.

Pakistani spearhead, Shoaib Akhtar was hampered from bowling for most of the day and had no joy whilst toiling for 10 overs and ending 0/46.

Score Summary:

Pakistan 1st innings 304 ao (86.4 overs)
Salman Butt 108, Yasir Hameed 58, Kamran Akmal 47, Younis Khan 46
SCG MacGill 5/87, GD McGrath 4/50

Australia 1st innings 340/4 (86 overs)
RT Ponting 155 not out, DR Martyn 67, MJ Clarke 35
Danish Kaneria 3/106

Posted by Liam