#OTD in 2005: Ricky Ponting delivered his bravest knock to save Australia from a defeat

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Ricky Ponting's 156 saved Australia from a defeat

On this day, seventeen years ago, Ricky Ponting's gritty knock of 156 helped Australia to evade a defeat against England at Manchester. 

The series was levelled 1-1, and both teams were competing vigorously to get the upper hand. 

England gain a big lead in first innings

Opting to bat first, England sustained an early blow with the dismissal of Andrew Strauss. However, Marcus Trescothick (63) and Michael Vaughan (166) added 137 runs for the second wicket to stabilize the innings. 

Ian Bell's fine 59 and an 87-run stand between Andrew Flintoff (46) and Geraint Jones (42) helped the hosts post 444 on the board. Shane Warne and Brett Lee scalped four wickets apiece for the visitors. 

Simon Jones took six wickets

In response, Justin Langer (31) and Matthew Hayden (34) provided a good start to Australia. However, Shane Warne (90) was the most significant contributor in the line-up, to help Australia finish on 302. 

Simon Jones bagged six wickets to help England secure a 142 run-lead in the first innings. 

Ponting's herculean effort help Australia to draw the Test match

In the second innings, England did well to declare on 280/6, on the back of Strauss' century . While chasing a mammoth target of 423, the Australian openers could not help the team to get off to a good start. 

However, arriving at number three, Ponting displayed a tough resolve against the rampant English attack. 

Lee (L), Ponting (center) and McGrath (R) after the third Test

The Aussie skipper batted for seven hours on the final day and scored 156 off 275, comprising 16 fours and a single six. He was dismissed when only four overs were left in the Test match. 

Then, Lee (18*) and McGrath (5*) remained unbeaten to ensure a fighting draw for the mighty Aussies. 

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