Adam Gilchrist struck a robust century to lead an Australian fightback against Bangladesh on the third day of the first Test yesterday.
The hard-hitting left-hander struck a gritty 144 to help avoid the ignominy of a follow-on before the Australian bowlers struck crucial blows in Bangladesh's second innings.
Bangladesh, who dismissed Australia for 269 in reply to their 427, were 124-5 in their second innings. Rajin Saleh (29) and Khaled Mashud (0) were the not out batsmen.
After gaining a 158-run lead, the home side were 282 runs ahead with four wickets still remaining in their bid to set a big target and try for only their second win in 43 Tests.
Bangladesh failed to capitalize on the cushion of a big lead while Australia, who had a forgettable opening two days, looked determined to show why they are the world's top team.
Bangladesh, who have lost both their previous Tests to Australia by innings margins, squandered a fine start to their second innings.
Openers Shahriar Nafees (33) and Javed Omar (18) failed to get big knocks while captain Habibul Bashar (7) was run out by a direct throw from Michael Clarke as he ran lethargically.
Gilchrist, 51 overnight in a score of 145-6, batted purposefully to take his team past the target of 228 to avoid batting again.
The 34-year-old completed his 16th century in 84 Tests with a drive through the covers off part-time spinner Saleh and continued to plunder runs in the company of tailenders.
RSS