Australia Take Control as Katich, Watson Misses Tons

Melbourne: Australia's openers both narrowly missed out on centuries but gave their side a strong start in the first Test against Pakistan in Melbourne.

Shane Watson and Simon Katich took Australia to 177 for no loss at tea in the Boxing Day Test, before Watson was run out on 93 in bizarre circumstances.

Katich then went for 98, caught at backward point by Salman Butt off the bowling of Mohammad Asif.

Ricky Ponting made 57 before he was caught by Misbah-ul-Haq.

The Australian captain had been a doubt before the match with an elbow injury but hit seven boundaries in 60 balls before nicking an outside edge to second slip.

Michael Hussey (37) and nightwatchman Nathan Hauritz (5) were the men still standing at stumps.

Brief scores
Australia: 305 for 4 (Katich 98, Watson 93, Asif 2-69)

Scores	Upcoming	Results
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 5th T20I Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians - 43rd Match Lucknow Super Giants vs Rajasthan Royals - 44th Match Gujarat Titans vs Royal Challengers Bangalore - 45th Match Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad - 46th Match 47th Match - Kolkata Knight Riders v Delhi Capitals - April 29, 14:00 GMT 48th Match - Lucknow Super Giants v Mumbai Indians - April 30, 14:00 GMT 42nd Match - Kolkata Knight Riders v Punjab Kings at Kolkata Punjab Kings won by 8 wickets (with 8 balls remaining) 4th T20I - Pakistan v New Zealand at Lahore New Zealand won by 4 runs

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