India were 213 for four at stumps in their second innings on Monday in the second Test at Bengaluru, leading Australia by 126 runs.
Pujara (79 not out) and Ajinkya Rahane (40 not out) were batting at the crease when the umpire signalled the day’s end. India scored 213 for the loss of 4 wickets and lead visitors by 126 runs.
Seamer Josh Hazlewood claimed three wickets, including the key scalp of skipper Virat Kohli for 15.
Both Pujara and Rahane showed grit and patience as the Australians kept probing the Indian batsmen. After losing 4 wickets in the second session the duo stitched a special partnership of 93 runs for the fifth wicket and batted for 33.5 overs. This is the highest batting partnership from both the sides in the ongoing series.
Rahul, who top-scored with 90 in India’s first innings, put on 45 with Pujara after Abhinav Mukund (16) was bowled by Hazlewood just after lunch.
But O’Keefe lured Rahul into a drive outside off stump and skipper Steve Smith took a brilliant catch at first slip, making up for an earlier spill against Pujara when the batsman was on 4.
Rahul, who recorded his fourth Test fifty, batted with intent during his 85-ball knock, laced with four fours, to try and take the attack to the bowlers. In the morning session, left-arm spinner Jadeja returned figures of 6-63 to help dismiss Australia for 276 in their first innings, a lead of 87. Australia lead the four-match series 1-0.
