Opening batsman Murali Vijay hit a stylish century as India raced to 247-2 at lunch on day three of the fourth Test against England in Mumbai on Saturday.
The hosts put on 101 runs in the morning session off 31 overs as they quickly reduced England’s lead to just 153 by the break.
Vijay started the day on 70 and was batting on 124 while talismanic captain Virat Kohli made an unbeaten 44 off 86 balls as the duo shared a partnership of 101 for the third wicket.
India suffered an early setback when Jake Ball bowled Cheteshwar Pujara, who was batting on 47 overnight, with just the second ball of the day.
Pujara’s dismissal marked the arrival of Kohli who helped Vijay bring up his second century of the series after scoring 126 in the drawn first Test in Rajkot.
Vijay was granted a reprieve just before lunch when he was on 116 after the umpire ruled him out lbw off Adil Rashid.
The right-handed batsman appealed the verdict and the TV umpire over-ruled the decision, deciding that the ball had struck Vijay’s bat first.
England, who must win at the Wankhede Stadium to keep the series alive, recorded 400 in their first innings. (AFP)
