Despite Butt’s ton, Australia in driver’s seat

Australia scored 59 in its second innings and lost a wicket in the process at stumps on day three of the third Test match against Pakistan in Hobart.

Australia scored 59 in its second innings and lost a wicket in the process at stumps on day three of the third Test match against Pakistan in Hobart.

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The visitors, resuming the day at 94-4, resisted the Aussie attack, thanks to a 129-run partnership between Shoaib Malik (58) and Salman Butt (102) before accidental-hero Simon Katich triggered an unlikely collapse with his part-time spin and brought Pakistan down to its knees.

Australia’s fast bowlers struggled for penetration on the placid Bellerive pitch, and it was only when Katich (3-34), was introduced to the attack that wickets began to fall.

Pakistan lost five wickets in quick succession and were left stuttering at 248-9, before tailenders Umar Gul (38 not out) and Mohammad Asif (29) whacked the new ball to get their side past 300.

It was another day of self-implosion by Pakistan, probably the one thing consistent other then their bowling this series.

With Ponting batting on 25 and Katich on a solid 33, day four promises to be full of attacking strokeplay as the hosts would look to build up a sizeable lead.