Australia skipper Ricky Ponting (137 not out) and his deputy Michael Clarke (111 not out) scored resolute centuries to revive Australia on Day One of the third Test against Pakistan at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Thursday.
Australia ended the day on 302 for 3, after the pair -- which came together shortly before lunch with the team struggling somewhat at 71-3 -- put on an unbeaten partnership of 231 to ensure the hosts had their tails up at close of play on the opening day.
Australia, leading the series 2-0, got off a terrible start, losing Shane Watson for 29 after Simon Katich fell lbw for 11 following a successful review decision for Pakistan, with the scoreboard reading 52 for 2.
But the butter-fingered Pakistani fielders continued their woeful catching and had Ponting dropped on nought.
Australia were then reduced to 71 for 3 just before lunch when they lost Michael Hussey, centurion in the last Test, for a paltry 6 runs.
Clarke joined skipper Ponting in the innings-rebuilding process and the duo played very slowly but steadily and gave the opposition no chance of another wicket.
Ponting struggled at the start of his innings but regained control after having a feel of the ball.
Both batsman played smart and determined innings to pull the Aussies out of the woods and ensure no more damage was done by close of play.
Ponting's 39th Test century came off 159 balls and was inclusive of 13 fours, while Clarke posted his 13th Test century off 188 balls.
