Steve Smith’s stylish century powered Australia to a strong position against India at lunch on the second day of the fourth test of the five-match series.

India has a new batting hero after 21-year-old Nitish Kumar Reddy showed the poise of a veteran to score his maiden century, leading his team’s comeback against Australia on day three of the fourth test.

In an electrifying Boxing Day clash led by youngsters, rookie all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy celebrated a stirring, maiden century to give India hope against Australia on day three of the fourth test on Saturday.

To make up for the lost time on Day 3 due to rain, the proceedings on Day 4 will beginan hour earlier than usual, starting at 4:30 AM IST (10 AM local time).

All the action from the third day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia’s fiery pace attack destroyed India’s top order on Friday to put them in the driving seat of the fourth test after they set a daunting first-innings target on the back of Steve Smith’s 34th test century.

Australia's fiery pace attack destroyed India's top order on Friday to put them in the driving seat of the fourth Test after they set a daunting first innings target on the back of Steve Smith's 34th Test century.

Australia enter day three of the Boxing Day Test leading by 310 runs, with India on the ropes following a chaotic run-out that triggered a collapse at the MCG.