ah the maiden test century...

India wicket-keeper Mahendra Dhoni struck a superb maiden Test century as his team recovered to 441-5, 147 behind Pakistan at stumps on day three.

Rahul Dravid recorded his second successive hundred and took his second wicket partnership with VVS Laxman to 197, an Indian record in Pakistan.

However, four wickets fell for 45 in 11 overs after lunch and as Dhoni came in 107 were needed to save the follow-on.

Dhoni hit some fierce strokes in an unbroken 160 stand with Irfan Pathan.

Dravid completed his half-century by driving the opening ball of the day from Mohammad Asif straight down the ground for four.

Laxman, 28 not out overnight, reached his fifty from 147 balls with seven fours.