A 92-run unbroken first-wicket partnership helped Australia consolidate their position after losing a wicket early to reach 92 for one at lunch on day one of the third Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground here Wednesday.
Opener Chris Rogers was batting at 46 while NO.3 batter Shane Watson is giving him company at 41. Australia's other opener, the in-form David Warner was out for 0.
India began the proceedings with a bang as pacer Umesh Yadav picked up the dangerous David Warner even before Australia managed to open their account.
The early loss, coupled with some disciplined bowling from the Indian pacers, forced Australians to a sedate start, allowing just 8 runs from five overs.
Opener Chris Rogers then hit a few boundaries in quick succession to help the hosts pull up the run rate.
After the initial period of caution and circumspection, both Rogers and No.3 batsman Watson settled down comfortably and unleashed some great shots.
India got a chance to break the partnership just at the stroke of lunch but failed to latch on to it. Watson, under pressure for his poor batting form, edged a Mohammed Shami delivery but was grassed by a diving Shikhar Dhawan at second slip.