Ganguly played a classy innings of sheer grit and handsome strokeplay before being dismissed for his highest ever score in Test cricket 239 going for a sweep shot and missing a Danish Kaneria delivery completely to be bowled 12 minutes before tea break.

Ganguly's grand knock which came in 523 minutes off 361 balls inclusive of 30 boundaries and two sixes off Kaneria was also the highest by an Indian at this venue surpassing Virender Sehwag's 201 against Pakistan four seasons ago.

India literally sent the Pakistan fielders on a leather hunt as this session witnessed 150 runs being scored in 30 overs with the other left-hander Pathan quickly learning the lessons from his senior partner at the crease.

The seventh wicket stand between Ganguly and Pathan yielded flashy 178 runs in 145 minutes and 220 balls which was by far the most entertaining in this innings and the holiday crowd cheered every moment of it amidst a show of Mexican Wave at this huge stadium.

Pathan is now on the verge of his maiden Test ton having already been at the crease for 159 minutes and facing 127 balls. He has so far struck 10 fours and three sixes.