Centurion Smith tackled onto Ranchi pitch

Everyone but Steve Smith saw the funny side of a bizarre incident on day one of the third Test, that ended with the Aussie skipper being tackled onto the pitch.

The hilarious moment happened in the final session on the opening day at Ranchi, with Australia on top at 4-257.

SCORECARD: India v Australia, third Test

The Aussie skipper was facing the spin of Rajendra Jadeja when the ball hopped up and became dislodged between his legs and pads.

Indian wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha appeared to try and pry the ball loose as Smith hopped around humorously on the pitch.

The gloveman must have heard an edge from the bat of Smith as he tried to grab the ball before it hit the ground, but he ended up crash-tackling the Aussie to the turf.

Saha himself fell on top of the Aussie captain as the players and officials laughed uncontrollably.

Smith remained stony-faced however, as Saha's hopeful appeal was waived away by the umpire.

The Aussie skipper later went onto to notch his 19th Test century (117no) to put the visitors on top after the opening day.

Recalled allrounder Glenn Maxwell also impressed with an unbeaten 82 as Australia finished on 4-299 at stumps.