The dramatic, rain-marred first Test between Australia and India appears set to end in a tame draw with the tourists keen to bat on at the Gabba.

India was 6-362, 39 runs ahead of Australia's first innings of 323, at stumps on day four and looking to build a bigger lead on the final day.

Captain Sourav Ganguly, who struck a majestic 144, the highest Test score by an Indian in Brisbane, was non-committal about whether he would push his side's advantage and chase an unexpected victory.

"We'll have to wait and see how we bat tomorrow," he said.

"We still have four wickets in hand.

"If we can pick (up) early wickets when they bat we can put pressure on them."

Ganguly combined with Akash Chopra (36) and VVS Laxman (75) for two vital partnerships after India had sunk to 3-62 after losing three wickets for one run in 23 minutes in the morning session.

Jason Gillespie (3-45) was the best bowler in a ragged Australian attack with the Gabba pitch not offering the life it gave India on day two when the home side collapsed from 2-268 to lose 7-49.

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