Adelaide: Australia's skipper Ricky Ponting miss another test cricket century against New Zealand's bowlers toiled in vain on the second day of the second test today.

Ponting out 79 (124b, 13x4), caught by Fulton on O'Brien balls in second over after tea on the second day as Australia took control at stumps 241 for three in reply to New Zealand's disappointing first innings of 270.

Ponting and Michael Hussey, 69* (178b, 8x4), added 106 runs for third wicket wicket on a dream batting pitch under sunny skies at the Adelaide Oval. At end of the day two vice captain Michael Clarke on crease with another Michael, he score 43* (94b, 7x4).

New Zealand's three pacemen Chris Martin, Tim Southee and Iain O'Brien all found it tough work with little movement in the air or off the pitch.

Earlier, New Zealand lost their final four wickets for just four runs as they resumed on 262 for six. Vice-captain Brendon McCullum was caught behind from a loose shot against paceman Brett Lee, without adding to his overnight score of 30. Vettori was left stranded on 18 not out as Lee took three of the last four wickets to fall, to end with figures of four for 66.

Brief Score: Australia 241 for 3 (Ponting 79, Hussey 69*) trail New Zealand 270 by 29 runs.
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