Cricket / Andy Morris / 14 January 2010 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

Australia dominated day one of the third and final test at the Bellerive Oval, punishing Pakistan for more fielding disasters, writes Andy Morris.

Ponting has only averaged 27 in five tests this summer, and had not got off the mark when Asif tempted him into a hook and Aamer should have taken a regulation catch at fine leg.

Captain Ricky Ponting made an unbeaten century on his home ground, but only after being dropped before he had scored.

Australia have set a new fourth wicket partnership record already, and look well set to bat Pakistan out of the game on day two.

Pakistan began the day brightly, taking the wicket of the returning Simon Katich in the sixth over when Mohammad Asif trapped him leg before.

Referral needed for first wicket

Umpire Asoka de Silva gave Katich not out, but on referral it was clear the ball would have hit middle and leg, and Australia were 1/28 with Katich having made 11.

Nine overs later, Umar Gul removed Shane Watson for 29 when Imran Farhat took the catch at point.

And the returning Mohammad Aamer got an edge from Mike Hussey, with new wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed taking the catch to dismiss Hussey for six and leave Australia in some trouble at 3/71.

Ponting reprieved

Pakistan continued to fluff easy chances, the 14th spill of the series allowing Ponting an extra life when a wicket would have put the home side under pressure and their captain again in the spotlight.

Ponting has only averaged 27 in five tests this summer, and had not got off the mark when Asif tempted him into a hook and Aamer should have taken a regulation catch at fine leg.

The youngster decided to take the catch at waist level, which was his first mistake, then juggled the ball and eventually grassed the catch to leave Ponting free to go on and post an 111-ball half century.

Vice captain Michael Clarke joined Ponting in compiling a crucial stand, reaching three figures off 188 balls.

Australia, bidding for a record-equalling 12th successive test win over Pakistan, saw Ponting step up his scoring after he had reached 50, going on to reach a century 48 balls later.

Australia ended the day 3/302, and Pakistan look to be going through the motions and counting down the hours til they can fly home.