Tendulkar closes on 100 as India dominate England

NOTTINGHAM, England, July 29 (Reuters) Sachin Tendulkar approached his 38th test century as India consolidated their dominance against England on the third day of the second test at Trent Bridge today.

India, replying to England's 198, reached 338 for three at lunch as Tendulkar looked to extend his world record tally of test hundreds and was 87 not out with Saurav Ganguly also unbeaten on 53.

India currently lead by 140 runs.

England began the day 56 behind and required early wickets to keep India's lead to a minimum but their inability to make a breakthrough has put them in danger of losing their first home test match in 13 months.

They were a little unfortunate when Ganguly, on five, survived a vocal appeal for lbw when replays showed that a Ryan Sidebottom delivery would have gone on to strike leg stump, though umpire Ian Howell rejected the shout.

Ganguly, seemed to be stranded on five as England sought to apply some pressure but he moved to 15 in two balls.

The left-hander square drove Chris Tremlett for four off the back and hooked him over square leg for six next ball, trying to change the perception he is not comfortable against the short ball.

Left-arm spinner Monty Panesar, England's top-ranked bowler, was introduced after 80 minutes of the session, replacing James Anderson who had conceded 28 runs from just five overs.

Even Panesar was unable to choke off the runs as Ganguly immediately struck him for two boundaries through cover. It was a far cry from the accuracy Sidebottom had displayed when he allowed just six runs from his nine-over spell.

England's bowlers have beaten the outside edge of both batsmen several times but until now the luck has been with the players on strike. Tendulkar became only the third man to pass 11,000 test runs yesterday.

India are seeking a first test series win in England for 21 years but Michael Vaughan, who has never lost a home series as captain or player, will be keen to preserve the hosts' record.

The first of three tests was drawn at Lord's, when rain prevented England taking an all-important 20th wicket in the match.

REUTERS SAM RN1813