The pitch, which is expected to favour the batsmen, the experienced Australian batsmen made good use of the weak Indian bowling, which could not break the partnership between Clarke and Ponting, which has reached more than 200 runs. The Indian team had got to a good start as Zaheer dismissed Warner when their score was just 26. It was indeed a big break through. The Aussies were soon 84 for 3, but the arrival of Clarke and Ponting at the crease turned the game on its head.

Apart from few close calls, the Indian bowlers looked in all sorts of problem. Though, Zaheer Khan tried his best, he did not receive good enough support from the other end. Umesh Yadav, who was expected to do well, after his recent performances, was clobbered by the Aussies, as he conceded 87 runs in 12 overs. Other bowlers such as Ashwin and Ishant Shrama also failed to impress, hence, it was a long day for the Indians on the field. Though, it was Ashwin, who was the highest wicket taker for India during the day, with two wickets.

 
The stand–in Indian captain Virender Sehwag tried different measures and tactics to dislodge the Australian pair. Even he himself bowled 13 overs in the game, with the hope of taking a wicket and change India’s fortune. He brought in some changes in the field too, but his efforts went in vain.

The Indian team, when they walk out tomorrow morning has to dislodge the inform players, Ponting and Clarke, else, it would be tough for Indians to save the Test match. Bowlers such as Zaheer, Yadav, Ashwin, Ishant must put in some extra effort to have a good day tomorrow, else the Indian team might once again lose the match without even playing for 5 days.