Perth, Jan 13 (IANS) Virat Kohli and V.V.S. Laxman looked on course to resurrecting India’s innings on the first day of the third Test against Australia until Peter Siddle dismissed them in quick succession to leave the visitors reeling at 144 for six when tea was taken.

Kohli (44) and Laxman (31) shared a 68-run stand for the fifth wicket after India lost four wickets in the morning. The session could have gone India’s way but for Kohli and Laxman getting out against the run of play.

Kohli mistimed a cover drive, ballooning a simple to David Warner at point. Laxman was another victim of Siddle’s dangerous off-stump line, edging an away going delivery to Michael Clarke at third slip.

Prior to their departure, both batsman looked comfortable at the crease and despatched their shots all around the ground.

In the morning session, Sehwag’s innings lasted for four balls as he edged a Ben Hilfenhaus outswinger straight into the safe hands of Ricky Ponting at second slip.

Rahul Dravid was bowled for one more time in the series. The batsman, who turned 39 Wednesday, lost his balance while playing a full length Peter Siddle (1-19) delivery which hit the pads before disturbing the timber.

Gambhir and Tendulkar got together at 32 for two and started playing some delightful straight drives. The master blaster once again showed good form, starting his innings with two majestic hits straight down the ground. But just when it looked a partnership was developing, Tendulkar was adjudged leg before off Ryan Harris (1-17) in the 25th over.

Six balls later and minutes before lunch, Gambhir gave in to the nagging off-stump line maintained by Hilfenhaus, nicking the ball to wicketkeeper Brad Haddin. The southpaw looked solid during his 82-ball knock and kept the scoreboard ticking with quick singles.

Both sides opted for an all-pace attack as Michael Clake expectedly put India in on a testing surface.