India on top after Pujara, Kohli’s big knocks
India declared at 443 for 7 thanks to big knocks from Cheteshwar Pujara, who struck his second ton in this series and skipper Virat Kohli before Australia openers survived a testing period before close of play on Day 2 of the third Test at MCG.
MCG surface continued its docile nature as the bowlers never found any real purchase except the occasional odd bounce on the wicket. India rode on the back of a 170-run third-wicket overnight stand between Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara for over a session before useful contributions from the middle order took them to 443 for 7, before their bowlers kept Australia's top-order in check for six overs.
After a sedate period of 70 overs without a wicket, Australia removed Kohli for 82 as he cut a Mitchell Starc delivery to third man and lose his wicket. Pujara fell after completing his ton as a Pat Cummins delivery kept viciously low. Rohit Sharma remained unbeaten on 63 as India posted a big first innings total on a surface that was getting spiced up towards the end of the day.
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