India's day of dominance continued in Bangalore, where M Vijay brought up his first Test century after Sachin Tendulkar compiled his 49th. Australia's bowlers were visibly deflated at tea, having failed to claim a wicket during the first two sessions as Tendulkar and Vijay cruised, taking their partnership to 276.

Australia's strong first innings meant they still held a 164-run lead, but it was rapidly dwindling as the bowlers failed to create any serious worries for either batsman. The first session belonged to Tendulkar, who brought up his hundred with a pair of slog-swept sixes off Nathan Hauritz, but after lunch the focus switched to his younger partner.

Vijay had seen the ease with which Tendulkar raced through the nineties but found it was not so simple for himself. The Australians crowded Vijay once he reached 99 and a short-pitched attack from Peter George kept the scoreboard quiet, but after more than 20 minutes without a run, Vijay nudged a quick single to cover to achieve his goal.

He leapt for joy at his milestone, which came nearly two years after his debut, and was embraced by Tendulkar, whose own century celebrations had been rather more understated. It was understandable; Tendulkar has raised his bat for reaching triple-figures seven times in the past year alone.

Tea India 314 for 2 (Tendulkar 148*, Vijay 118*) trail Australia 478 by 164 runs.

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