We've had a pretty good day so we've just got to go on with it tomorrow and set the match up Ricky Ponting

Ricky Ponting completed his 18th Test century as Australia chased Zimbabwe's 308 on day two of the second Test.

Ponting cut spinner Ray Price for his 18th boundary to move into three figures from 113 balls.

He had reached 137, and partner Steve Waugh was 43 not out, when bad light brought an early close with Australia 245-3 - 63 runs in arrears.

Earlier, Andy Blignaut scored an unbeaten 38 to help Zimbabwe add 52 to their overnight 256-8.

He shared a 53-run partnership with Price for the ninth wicket and then dismissed both opening batsmen.

That was a big relief, especially after what he did last week Andy Blignaut

Justin Langer mistimed an attempted drive straight to Heath Streak for two.

And Matthew Hayden, who scored a Test-high 380 runs in the opening Test, cut a catch after scoring 20 runs.

Damien Martyn, with 32, helped Ponting add 97 for the third wicket before falling leg before wicket to Price.

And skipper Waugh helped add exactly the same number before stumps in a patient innings.

Early in the stand, Ponting lofted Price for six to become the 13th Australian to pass 5000 Test runs.

Read more: Lee joins injury list

Early in the day Australia paceman Brett Lee was taken to hospital for scans after feeling discomfort in his left abdominal muscle.

He was later ruled out of the remainder of the match and Australia's one-day tour to India.

Australia: Steve Waugh (captain), Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer, Matthew Hayden, Damien Martyn, Simon Katich, Adam Gilchrist, Andy Bichel, Brett Lee, Brad Hogg, Brad Williams.