Australia struggling to save follow-on in Mohali Test (Tea report)

Mohali, Oct 19 (IANS) Indian bowlers wrestled down Australia, leaving them reeling at 249 for eight at tea break on the third day of the second cricket Test at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) stadium here Sunday.

Australia, replying to India's first innings total of 469, were still 20 runs short of avoiding the follow-on.

All-rounder Shane Watson led a fightback and was 66 not out. Mitchell Johnson (2 not out) was the other batsman at the crease.

Watson got good support from Brett Lee, who made 35 before edging one to Rahul Dravid at slip off Harbhajan Singh.

Amit Mishra was the pick of the Indian bowlers getting three wickets. Ishant Sharma and Harbhajan got two wickets each while Zaheer Khan picked up one.

Resuming at overnight score of 102 for four, Australia showed initial resistance before Mike Hussey (54) edged Ishant Sharma to wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

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