Cheteshwar Pujara's double century knock of 202 and Wriddhiman Saha's career-best score of 117 have put India in a commanding position in the third Cricket against Australia. On the fourth day of the match in Ranchi today, after securing a substantial first innings lead of 152 runs, the hosts had the visitors struggling at 23 for two in their second innings.Earlier, India declared their first innings at 603 for nine, after resuming the day at their overnight 360 for 6. It was in reply to Australia's first innings score of 451 all out. For Pujara, it was his third Test double century. His innings lasted 672 minutes, during which he faced 525 deliveries — most by any Indian batsman in an innings surpassing Rahul Dravid's Indian record of 495 balls against Pakistan at Rawalpindi back in 2004.The Saurashtra right-hander added a record 199 runs for the seventh wicket stand with Saha, which could well prove to be a game-changer. Jadeja's 54 off 55 balls helped to stretch the Indian lead to 150 plus. Left-arm spinner Steve O'Keefe sent down 77 overs and picked up 3 wickets for 196 runs. The number of overs bowled by O'Keefe is highest by an overseas bowler on Indian soil. Comeback man Pat Cummins was the most successful bowler with an analysis of 4 for 106 in 39 overs. Nathan Lyon took one wicket for 163 runs. Australia still need 129 runs to avoid an innings defeat.
News On AIR | March 19, 2017 6:24 PM
Third Test: Pujara, Saha put India in commanding position Australia