The Kohli-Rahane Show Lights Up Day 3 at MCG

The Kohli-Rahane show was in full display as the packed crowd at MCG witnessed two batsmen - of varied style and technique - take the Australian bowling apart to put the game in an interesting scenario (All images AP and AFP).

Resuming on 108/1, India had a disastrous start to Day 3 at MCG as Cheteshwar Pujara fell on the second ball of the day from Ryan Harris (All images AP and AFP)

Virat Kohli had to walk out as early as the third ball on Day 3 but that didn't make any difference to the champion batsman as he timed the ball to perfection from the word go.

Murali Vijay was looking good until a a Mitchell Johnson bouncer struck him on the back of his helmet. Coincidentally, he was batting on 63 at that moment. He fell soon for 68, brining Rahane to the middle.

There was no stopping Kohli though as he steadied himself and then looked set to play the long knock.

It was not easy as Kohli was verbally assualted through the day by Australians, especially Mitchell Johnson.

"They were calling me a spoilt brat and I said 'Maybe that's the way I am -- I know you guys hate me and I like that," said the Indian vice-captain after the day's play. By then, he had scored 169.

Kohli's joy after every milestone was understandable. "I like playing against Australia because it's very hard for them to stay calm," he said. "I don't mind. I will give it on the field. It really excites me and brings the best out in me."

Kohli was lucky to have the right support.

Rahane hit 147 and the two had a 262-run stand for the fourth wicket. India eventually ended the day on 462/8, 68 behind Australia's first innings total.