Second repeat ton by Cook helps England to tighten grip on Adelaide Test

ADELAIDE - A second consecutive Test hundred by opener Alastair Cook helped England to tighten its grip on proceedings against Australia in the second Ashes Test on Saturday.

Ably assisted by key middle order batsman Kevin Pietersen, who remained unbeaten on 85 at the close of play, Cook helped England to score 317 for the loss of two wickets. The Poms have taken a lead of 72 runs against the Kangaroos at the end of the second day’s play.

Earlier, one-drop batsman Jonathan Trott scored 78 and was involved in a 173 run partnership with Cook, who was unbeaten on 136 at the draw of stumps.

England captain Andrew Strauss shouldered arms and was bowled by Doug Bollinger for one.

It maybe recalled that Australia had scored a paltry 245 on a batting wicket. Jimmy Anderson claimed four wickets for 51, while off-spinner Graeme Swann claimed two wickets for 70.

Australia’s bowlers were by and large disappointing. Ryan Harris claimed a wicket for 51 runs of his 19 overs, while Bollinger went for 76 for a wicket of his 15 overs. Peter Siddle went wicketless for 50 runs of his 16 overs. (ANI)