Victoria well on top against hurting Bulls

Queensland 195 (Reardon 58, McKay 3-60) and 0 for 10 trail Victoria 378
Scorecard

On the same day that Ricky Ponting's follow-on decision paid off at the Gabba, Queensland were also forced to follow on after a disappointing first innings at the MCG. Nathan Reardon's 58 was the only contribution of note in the Bulls' 195 and at stumps they were still 173 in arrears.

Melbourne's rainy weather cut the day short and Queensland had reached 0 for 10 in their second innings with Nick Kruger on 9 and Wade Townsend on 1. They had already conceded first-innings points, although they were one batsman down as Ryan Broad could not take his place having fractured his thumb while fielding on the first day and is expected to miss three weeks.

Clint McKay was the star for Victoria with 3 for 60 but it was the home team's fielding that really hurt the Bulls. A direct hit from the substitute fielder Michael Beer ended Nick Kruger's innings on 30 and Chris Simspon was also caught short thanks to a relay effort from Bryce McGain to Andrew McDonald.

Victoria's first-innings points have given them outright first place on the Sheffield Shield table and they will be keen to extend their lead with victory over the next two days. However, Melbourne's weather is likely to affect their efforts with more rain expected on Sunday and Monday.