Siddle strikes to keep Tendulkar frustrated

Sachin Tendulkar threatened to bring up his 100th international century but was dismissed late on the second day after helping put India in command of the first Test against Australia in Melbourne.

By The Newsroom

Published 28th Dec 2011, 10:21 BST

Tendulkar was bowled by Peter Siddle for a dashing 73, including a six and eight fours, from 98 deliveries, three balls before stumps at the MCG.

He had teamed up with Rahul Dravid, who scored a patient 68 not out off 185 balls to help the tourists reach 214-3 heading into the third day in response to Australia’s first innings score of 333.

The two greatest Test run-scorers of all-time put on 117 for the third wicket – their 20th century partnership. Worryingly for Australia, they were looking at their ominous best before Siddle intervened and forced nightwatchman Ishant Sharma to make an appearance.

Siddle’s ripping spell at the end of the day yielded 1-7 from four overs.

Earlier, Australia made it to 333 thanks to some handy cameos from Siddle (41), Hilfenhaus (19) and Pattinson (18 no) after starting the day on 277-6.

Veteran Indian paceman Zaheer Khan (4-77) and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin (3-81) shared the last four wickets.

Australia India