Batting will be harder as Test progresses: Hayden

The burly left-hander, who has now scored six centuries in his last seven matches at the MCG, played some streaky shots before settling down to combine with Phil Jaques for a 135-run opening partnership.

8220;I think it8217;s definitely going to be a wicket that will be very hard to score on over the next few days,8221; Hayden said.

8220;There will be slow conditions and it will be challenging to score runs. You will see us really putting the pressure on in the field and really trying to restrict India, that8217;s the way I see it going. I also think the match will go into the fifth day and the wicket will deteriorate and it will be very difficult to bat on during that last day.8221;

The danger of the wicket breaking up and facing a run chase on the final day had been noticed by India captain Anil Kumble, whose figures of five for 84 had dragged his side back into the match.

He said it was important his vaunted batting lineup stepped up when they get the chance to bat.

8220;The wicket is slow, but if you apply yourself then there are runs to get,8221; said Kumble.

8220;He Hayden showed that and I8217;m sure if our batsmen apply themselves it will happen.8221;