Cricket: Warner, Hughes defy New Zealand attack

Openers give flying start as Australia eye series win over tourists.

HOBART: Openers David Warner and Phillip Hughes gave Australia a strong platform for victory over New Zealand before rain ended play early on the third day of the second Test.

The two left-handers put on 72 to give the Australians a flying start as they chase 241 at Hobart’s Bellerive Oval to wrap up a two-nil series win. No play was possible after tea, with Warner on 47 off 50 balls and Hughes on 20 from 64.

“Both openers did a fantastic job,” said Australia vice-captain Brad Haddin. “It’s been hard work batting up the  order with that new ball.”

A total of 30 wickets have fallen in the eight sessions of play in a Hobart Test where the ball has dominated the bat.

Earlier, New Zealand, with a 14-run first-innings lead, lost seven wickets for 87 runs in the extended morning session to be all out for 226.

“We have to start well, there’s been some assistance in the wicket throughout the game so we know that will be there,” said Black Caps bowling coach Damien Wright. “Bellerive offers a bit in the mornings and it’s crucial for us to break this partnership.”

James Pattinson, Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon took three wickets each as the Black Caps unravelled after losing Ross Taylor and Dean Brownlie.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 12^th, 2011.