Unbeaten centurion Ricky Ponting says Australia will tread a fine line between batting India out of the fourth Test and killing the match.

Australia resume at 3-335 on Wednesday’s second day in Adelaide with Ponting not out 137 and captain Michael Clarke on 140.

Ponting said the duo would seek to build their unbroken 251 run fourth wicket partnership.

But he said they would have to balance the run scoring with a desire to push for victory on a batter-friendly Adelaide Oval pitch.

“You have to be careful not to bat too long,” Ponting said after compiling his 41st Test ton.

“It will be a tough wicket to take 20 wickets if you want to win this game.

“We need to make sure we’re not killing too much time.

“We’ll be nice and positive, hopefully we’ll score our runs in a reasonable slick and see how we go.”

Ponting, who ruled out retiring at the end of the Adelaide Test, hoped his return to form with the bat put an end to rumours of disquiet at being replaced by Clarke as captain.

“I know my place in the team … Michael is the leader now,” Ponting said.

“I have stepped back from all the responsibilities I once had.

“There was negativity around from people in the outside.

“(But) I don’t think there was anyone within … Australian cricket who had doubts about the way I am around to help the younger guys.

“I am around for advice if Michael needs it.

“I am not going to press myself on him.

“I am the no. 4 batsman and the second slip fielder at the moment.”