(Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
The pendulum of power swung back and forth ferociously on day one was certainly not the case on day two. Australia fought back superbly as both Ricky Ponting and Simon Katich scored hundreds after England’s tail had brought blushes to the Aussie bowling attack early on.
The first hour was all England as the lower order notched up 99 runs in the session taking England’s first innings over the 400 mark. Early aggression from Stuart Broad and James Anderson set the tone before Graeme Swann added a quick fire 47. This frustrated the Australians and spurred on the home support. However, the impetus would soon return with Australia as England struggled with the ball.
Australia’s reply got off to flyer with Phil Hughes playing typically with aggression and great unorthodoxy. Along with Katich, who played securely, the pair put on 60 for the first wicket. Unsurprisingly it was talisman Flintoff who provided the breakthrough, Hughes falling to a clever catch from wicketkeeper Prior. This brought Ponting to the crease while he and teammate Katich built steadily throughout the day with little trouble despite the best efforts of the English attack. Simon Katich was first to complete his hundred, his first in Ashes cricket, before Ponting joined him pushing into the covers during the last over of the day.
Australia now hold the upper hand and will be confident in constructing a lead, but England will hope for wickets when they take the new ball during the first session.
Player of the Day - Simon Katich
Moment of the Day - Flintoff v Hughes
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