Gautam Gambhir and Venkatsai Laxman hammered double-centuries to put India in complete control on the second day of the third Test against Australia on Thursday.

Opening batsman Gambhir struck a career-best 206 while the stylish Laxman remained unbeaten on 200 as the hosts posted a massive 613-7 before declaring their first innings midway through the final session.

Australia were cautious in their reply, reaching 50-0 at the close with Matthew Hayden on 16 and Simon Katich on 29.

The day belonged to the Indian batsmen, who thrived in good batting conditions and set their side up for a series-clinching win.

The hosts lead the four-Test series 1-0 after winning the previous match in Mohali by 320 runs. The opener in Bangalore ended in a draw.