In Pics: Lucky Pucovski, gritty Labuschagne put Australia on top in third Test

Debutant Will Pucovski and Marnus Labuschagne smacked half-centuries as Australia recovered from an early setback to build a promising first innings in the rain-hit third Test against India. (Getty Images)

Following David Warner's departure for five, the hosts recovered to 166/2 at stumps after more than three hours' play was lost due to persistent drizzle at the Sydney Cricket Ground. (AP photo)

Labuschagne was not out 67 while Steve Smith, who has struggled for runs this series, hit an attacking unbeaten 31. Pucovski contributed 62 in an impressive maiden Test innings. (AFP photo)

Fellow debutant Navdeep Saini and Mohammed Siraj, in only his second Test, shared the wickets in a clash both sides are desperate to win with the four-match series level at 1-1. (Getty Images)

After captain Tim Paine won the toss and chose to bat in front of 8,692 socially-distanced fans, just under the quarter of capacity allowed, the rain started falling 35 minutes into the opening session. (Getty Images)

It was enough time for Siraj to grab the key wicket of Warner on his return from injury, caught by Cheteshwar Pujara to put Australia on the back foot. (AFP photo)

But a 100-run partnership between Pucovski and Labuschagne swung the momentum back in Australia's favour before the 22-year-old fell lbw to Saini. (AP photo)

Labuschagne, then brought up his ninth Test 50 with a boundary off Siraj, while Smith looked in ominous touch at the other. (Getty Images)

Smith looked positive from the word go and was determined to not let the Indian bowlers dictate terms to him. (Getty Images)

India, missed out on a couple of chances on field as well as keeper Rishabh Pant twice dropped Pucovski. The team also missed out on a run out opportunity. (AFP photo)

Earlier, Rohit Sharma returned to the Indian playing XI in place of Mayank Agarwal, while Saini was handed a Test debut, replacing an injured Umesh Yadav. (AFP photo)