http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Clarke-c51120 scores maiden double hundred
A captain’s knock from http://www.senore.com/Cricket/MJ-Clarke-c1978 derailed the Indians as the host piled up a mammoth 482 on Day 2 of the 2nd Test, played at the SCG, January 4, 2012.
The skipper scored his maiden double century, and was in no mood to allow their opponents a way back in the game, ending on an unbeaten 251. The days highlight however, belonged to the former Kangaroo leader, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/RT-Ponting-c2377, who defied his critics to notch
up his first triple figures since January 2010.
At stumps, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/MEK-Hussey-c1942, the other veteran player, held his own with a confident 55 not out, ending a day of total Aussie domination.
Their authority was never in doubt after they bowled out the Men In Blue for 191, while scoring the major chunk in the final session on Day 1, closing at 116 for 3.
However, Day 2 proved another fruitful outing for the hosts, who cemented their footing in the second Test, thanks to marvelous contributions from the middle order. A tough day for the Indians on the field was characterized by the lack of aggression shown
by their skipper, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/MS-Dhoni-c2028 who set up pretty defensive fields, allowing the Australians to score freely.
However, his bowlers too fell short of expectations despite http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Z-Khan-c98379 claiming three quick wickets in the closing stages of the first day. He started brightly but with no substantial support from the remaining bowlers, the hosts proved too hot to handle.
The first major highlight of the day came in the shape of a century for Punter, who spoiled his shirt in an attempt to scamper for a suicidal single. However, he picked himself up and stood head down in appreciation from the passionate Sydney faithful, all
on their feet to celebrate his ton.
He departed shortly before the tea interval but the party went on as Clarke reached his maiden double ton in front of his home crowd. He again punched the air in sheer delight as it confirmed his team’s dominancy in the game.
Michael Hussey too had small milestone to celebrate as he reached his fifty as the Aussie’s closed in on 482 – an overall lead of 291.
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