New Zealand shot out for 150

Pattinson takes five as Australia start 2nd Test strongly.

HOBART: Pressure mounted on Phil Hughes after he again failed with the bat as Australia chased New Zealand’s modest 150 on an eventful opening day of the second Test at Bellerive Oval.

A total of 11 wickets tumbled in 50 overs on a bowler-friendly Bellerive wicket with Michael Clarke winning perhaps the most crucial toss of his eight Tests. Pace newcomer James Pattinson starred with five wickets for the second consecutive innings as New Zealand were skittled out in 45.4 overs.

“I think 150 on any pitch is under par, I don’t think it’s enough but saying that if they bowl really well you don’t know what could happen,” said Pattinson, who will be on a hat-trick in New Zealand’s second-innings.

“We’ve definitely got the talent in our batting to get a big score.”

Peter Siddle played a strong supporting role to Pattinson with three for 42 off 13 overs, while Mitchell Starc claimed two for 30.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 10^th, 2011.