Ponting survives to anchor Australian innings

0 Comments | AFP, March, 2006

DURBAN, South Africa (AFP) — Australian captain Ricky Ponting survived two chances as Australia made slow progress on the first day of the second Test against South Africa at Kingsmead.

Australia were 138 for two at tea on Friday, with Ponting on 73 not out.

Ponting was dropped on five when he gloved Makhaya Ntini down the legside and wicketkeeper Mark Boucher could not hold a relatively easy chance.

On 36 he edged Andre Nel at catchable height between Graeme Smith and Jacques Kallis at first and second slip.

Ponting led a cautious batting performance after he won the toss and batted on a pitch with pace and bounce, which was expected to become progressively better for batsmen.

South Africa struck in the second over of the match when Makhaya...