Test evenly poised after Smith's heroics

Brisbane, Dec 19 (IANS) Steven Smith and Mitchell Johnson's whirlwind partnership propelled Australia to a first innings score 505 runs, a lead of 97, but India made a solid start to their second innings, reaching 71 for one to trail by only 26 at stumps on day three of the second Test at the Gabba here Friday. At stumps, India's opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan and No.3 Cheteshwar Pujara were at the crease, on 26 and 15 respectively. First innings centurion Murali Vijay (27) was the Indian batsman to be dismissed. Australia, though, will be happier of the two teams having fought back brilliantly from a precarious position to help themselves to a handy first innings lead. Indian bowler's ineptness at dismissing the tailenders once again cost them dear as Australia reached 505 from an uncomfortable position of 247 for six.