Australia’s victory chase halted by rain

Monday, 12 December 2011 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Reuters: Rain stalled Australia’s pursuit of 241 runs for victory on the third day of the second test against New Zealand on Sunday, wiping out the final session after the hosts had made 72 without loss at tea.

New Zealand had started the day with hopes high that a first test victory on Australian soil since 1985 might be within their grasp but superb bowling sent them crashing from 139 for three overnight to 226 all out at lunch.

Australia openers David Warner (47) and Phil Hughes (20) will resume on Monday having survived a few dicey moments on a wicket still offering plenty for the bowlers.

Lefthander Hughes survived a scare before he managed to get a run on the board when what looked like a legitimate appeal for a catch off his glove from the bowling of Chris Martin was turned down.

Playing for his place in the side after three failures in the series so far, Hughes recovered his composure but his batting lacked the confidence of Warner at the other end.