Flintoff, Jones in century stand as England score 288-6

Mohali, Mar 11 (UNI) Andrew Flintoff led from the front sharing a solid 103-run sixth wicket partnership with wicketkeeper Geraint Jones enabling England to reach 288 for six at lunch on the third day of the second Test against India at the PCA Stadium here today.

Flintoff made 70 before falling to Munaf Patel, who caught him off his own bowling but Jones was holding fort on 46. Munaf captured his second Test wicket after he had bowled Ian Bell in England's first innings.

Resuming at their overnight total of 200 for five, Flintoff and Jones frustrated the Indian bowlers. Flintoff, who was lucky to survive in the second over of the day when he was dropped by Rahul Dravid at first slip, hit two huge sixes off young spinner Piyush Chawla (9-1-45-0).

On the other end, Munaf had to wait for a long time before he consumed Flintoff after India had taken the new ball following the completion of 90 overs. England were 282 for five at that stage.

Flintoff, playing his 58th Test, also hit 11 fours. He faced 123 deliveries and occupied the crease for 180 minutes.

After his departure Liam Plunkett joined Jones but is yet to open his account.

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper Jones, reached a milestone of his own completing his 1000 Test runs when he hit a loose delivery of Chawla to midwicket for four. He becomes the eighth England wicketkeeper to achieve this target.

India's champion leg-spinner Anil Kumble continues to toil hard for 500th Test wicket and bowled nine overs today, two of which were maiden and conceded 32 runs.

Earlier, despite heavy rain yesterday, the ground was made playable by the PCA staff with the help of using super soppers.

Third day's play began at 1000 hrs with overcast sky and lights had to be switched on.

UNI XC PM SP1250