Watson gives Australia a boost

Shane Watson hit a patient century to give Australia a solid in the opening Test against hosts India in Mohali.



Watson scored an undefeated 101 and captain Ricky Ponting chipped in with a fluent 71 as the tourists closed on 224 for five, with India hitting back in the final session.



Zaheer Khan was the pick of the hosts' bowlers, claiming two late wickets.



Watson and Ponting added 141 runs for the second wicket and laid the foundation for a good first-innings total after Australia had won the toss, only for Zaheer to change the momentum.



Zaheer returned impressive figures of three for 45 with spinners Harbhajan Singh one for 69.



Pragyan Ojha also bowled well but ended with none for 39 off 31 overs.