India dominate Day 1

Powerhouse Indian pair Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli built on an impressive 76 from debutant Mayank Agarwal to pile pain on Australia in the crunch third Test Wednesday.

On a docile, batsman-friendly Melbourne Cricket Ground wicket, India ground their way to 215 for two at stumps on day one with the rock-like Pujara not out 68 and superstar Kohli unbeaten on 47 as the bowlers toiled in hot conditions for little reward.

Pat Cummins was the pick of the attack, taking two for 40.

India came into the Boxing Day clash with a new pair of inexperienced openers.

But the exciting Agarwal rose to the challenge in front of 73,500 fans after India won an important toss and opted to bat on a pitch that is expected to deteriorate as the match wears on.

He stroked 76 -- the highest score by an Indian on debut in Australia -- and was looking impregnable before Cummins had him caught behind by Tim Paine as he gloved the last ball before tea down the leg-side.

SCORES IN BRIEF

India: First innings 215 for 2 (Agarwal 76, Pujara 68 not out, Kohli 47 not out; Cummins 2-40)