India tighten noose around Australia

Mohali (Punjab), Oct 19 (IANS) India had Australia on the mat, reeling at 174 for seven, on the third day of the second Test match at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium here Sunday.

Australia still need 95 runs to save a follow-on in the match after India Saturday piled up 469 runs in their first innings.

Indian bowlers continued their domination as they got three wickets in the first session of play.

Resuming at overnight score of 102 for four, Australia showed initial resistance Sunday morning before Mike Hussey (54) edged Ishant Sharma to wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Hussey, on whom Australia were pinning a lot of hopes, batted well for his half-century but was troubled by Sharma, who bowled cleverly.

Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin (9) also departed soon after his stumps were rattled by off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. Cameroon White (5) also did not last long and was bowled by debutant Amit Mishra.