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
South Africa vs India - 4th T20I 2nd T20I - Australia v Pakistan - November 16, 08:00 GMT 4th T20I - West Indies v England - November 16, 20:00 GMT 3rd T20I - West Indies v England at St. Lucia England won by 3 wickets (with 4 balls remaining) 1st T20I - Australia v Pakistan at Brisbane Australia won by 29 runs

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