Aussies take control and Tendulkar still waits

Wednesday, 04 January 2012 13:46

Written by Editor

Captain Michael Clarke and former skipper Ricky Ponting left Australia in a strong position on day one of the second Test against India in Sydney. The tourists were bowled out for 191 after winning the toss, with Sachin Tendulkar – still one short of his 100th international century – making 41.

Seamer Zaheer Khan (3-26) then removed the Aussie top three cheaply. But Ponting (44 not out) and Clarke (47 not out) added 79 for the fourth wicket as they reached 116-3 by the close. The build-up to the 100th Test to be staged at the Sydney Cricket Ground was dominated by talk of Tendulkar's landmark, which has been on the cards since his 99th ton at the World Cup in March.

But rookie James Pattinson (4-43) tore into India's top order and was well supported by Peter Siddle (3-55), who took his 100th Test wicket, and Ben Hilfenhaus (3-51) as all 10 India wickets fell to pace bowling, including nine to catches in the slips or at short-leg.