UPDATE-2-Cricket-Hussey's century helps Australia to post 430

BANGALORE, India, Oct 10 (Reuters) - Michael Hussey anchored Australia to a commanding first innings score of 430 with a remarkable century on the second day of the first test against India on Friday.

In reply, hosts India made a confident start by reaching 68 without loss at stumps, drawn early due to rain.

Left-hander Hussey scored a patient 146, following up on skipper Ricky Ponting's first-day century (123) when the touring side made a good start to the four-test series.

"It was a slow wicket with a bit of uneven bounce, there are a bit of cracks and indentations, a dry wicket. It was a challenge and it feels special to score," Hussey told a news conference.

"All (centuries) are special but I guess India is the toughest place to play cricket for an Australian and so this is very special," added Hussey, who opened the tour with a century in Australia's only warm-up match in Hyderabad last week.

Ponting's 36th hundred on Thursday was his first in India as he banished the frustrations of seven test failures spread over 12 years.

The visitors lost Shane Watson early on day two to lively paceman Ishant Sharma, who finished with four for 77, after Australia resumed on 254 for four.