Ponting's dismissal turns the slide in India's favour

India would have been happier had Dhoni taken a regulation catch to dismiss Paine. But, India had to be satisfied with its performance after the Australian Team that at one point of time, reached 141/1 in 41.2 overs, could muster below 100 runs loosing 4 wickets in the process in the remaining 38.4 overs. It was Zaheer's performance all the way - He finished with 3 for 45 off 16 overs to continue the fine recovery by a side that was struggling badly over the first half of the day.

On a pitch with low bounce and gaining in turn, Watson began in an aggressive mood but toned down once Ponting and Michael Clarke departed before tea, leaving the tourists at an uncomfortable 172 for 3. Until Ponting's departure for 71, Australia had been the ones in control but his run-out forced a change of pace, and Watson started grinding towards three-figures. Watson and Ponting had survived some scares and overcame the early loss of Simon Katich (6) in their stabilising 141-run stand. The two-Test series began with Virender Sehwag's second-ball drop of Watson, who was also missed by Dhoni on 37, while Ponting benefitted from Ishant's over-stepping when glancing behind.

But once Zaheer was brought back, reverse swing did the trick - Zaheer has sent Hussey back! Definite reverse swing, this time the other way - the ball shaped back into Hussey from outside off and defeated his forward prod. Thuds into the pads in front of middle and then, North - Zaheer has prised out another left hander! This one ducks in from a length outside off, North let it go. only to see his off bail being knocked back

Ishant's injured knee was a concerning development, especially as Harbhajan had to pass a fitness test in the morning. The lack of firepower could harm the hosts for the remainder of the game, but not if Zaheer continues weaving the ball late. Though India are a man short, the progress of the match has already become a worrying factor for Australia. Could India bowl out Australia by lunch time tomorrow?