Steve Smith will be looking to make it three consecutive centuries against India on day two of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

Smith will resume at 72 on Saturday, with Australia 5-259 and the game in the balance.

The 25-year-old, who scored an unbeaten 162 in Adelaide then 133 at the Gabba, continued his career-best form and personified leadership on Friday.

Chris Rogers was in awe, noting how Smith’s confidence had grown.

“Someone (Mohammed Shami) threw a ball back at him today and he had the confidence to say a few words back at him,” Rogers said.

“It’s scary to think how good he can be.

“He’s phenomenal to watch.

“He knows he belongs and he knows he’s among the best players in the world at the moment.”

Rogers believed the game was “pretty even” after day one.

“There’s enough in the wicket if you get it in the right areas,” the 37-year-old opener said.

Shami, who played down his confrontation with Smith, agreed.

“Tomorrow morning is quite important,” he said on Boxing Day.

“Our effort will be to finish their innings up in the first session tomorrow, finish their innings as quickly as possible.”

Shami limped off during Friday’s final session with a thigh niggle, but suggested he’d be right to bowl on Saturday.

India failed to snare a wicket with the second new ball on Boxing Day, with Brad Haddin and Smith successfully negotiating the eight overs before stumps.