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Michael Clarke century inspires Australia

Australia captain Michael Clarke battles through the pain barrier to help his side on their way to 517-7 at stumps on day two of the second Test against India.

Michael Clarke scored a century to put Australia in command at 517-7 on day two of the first Test against India.

The Aussies captain, who made a surprise return to the crease in Adelaide this morning having retired on 60 on the opening day due to an injured back, battled through the pain barrier to rack up 128 runs for his side.

He accompanied Steven Smith (162*) to get play underway on a day where only 31 overs were played due to rain, with the tourists dropping a number of catches before stumps in a bad fielding display.

Clarke was eventually caught out late on by Cheteshwar Pujara having struck 18 boundaries.

This is Australia's first Test meeting since the passing of 25-year-old batsman Phil Hughes, who was honoured in a video tribute prior to yesterday's opening session.

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Daniel Lewis
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Australia's batsman Steven Smith raises his bat as he reaches his 100 on day one of the third Ashes cricket Test against England in Perth on December 13, 2013
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