Laxman maintains fightback against Aussies

Vangipurappu Laxman hit an unbeaten 171 as India reached 376 for four in their second innings at lunch on the fourth morning of the second test against Australia.

India, overnight 254 for four after being asked to follow on, had built a lead of 31 runs as they continued their fightback in the match.

The hosts were dismissed for 171 in their first innings in reply to Australia's 445.

Laxman, who struck his second test century to keep India afloat on Tuesday, broke through the shackles imposed by the Australian pacemen with the new ball by hitting a flurry of boundaries.

He smashed four fours in one over from fast bowler Jason Gillespie after he had given Dravid a torrid time with sharp swinging deliveries.

Laxman hit McGrath through the cover region for four to wipe out the 274-run deficit and ensure Australia will have to bat a second time.

Laxman was lucky when his inside edge off Gillespie just missed the stumps and raced to the fineleg fence but he kept up his attacking shots. He had hit 26 fours in his innings.

Dravid, who was dropped down the order to push Laxman to the number three slot, looked unsure early on but opened out by driving McGrath through extra cover for four. Dravid was supporting Laxman with an unbeaten half-century.

Mail Cricket Editor