Steve Smith scored his second Test century to stabilise Australia in the first day of the third Ashes Test, ending the day on 326-6 after being reduced to 143-5 shortly after lunch.
After the Australian top order fell through a series of uncharacteristically loose shots, Brad Haddin and Smith forged an excellent partnership through which England’s bowlers began to toil, leading bowling coach David Saker to question this match’s selection.
"Like everyone we make mistakes. We could have made a mistake in this game,” he said.
“Having said that, if the bowlers had bowled to their capabilities we wouldn't have got it wrong.
"I am sure the pitch will quicken up but then that makes it easier for batting and playing your shots.
"We normally pride ourselves in being able to restrict teams.
"We got a bit excited. That is not good enough. It is a bit disappointing but the last thing we want to do is think the Ashes is over.”
After losing the toss, England were made to field, and their breakthrough came thanks to some excellent fielding from James Anderson, a direct hit from mid-on seeing off Chris Rogers for 11.
David Warner was on typically attacking form, as was Shane Watson, but after passing 100 their carefree nature gifted England wickets, the latter pulling loosely off Broad. Michael Clarke then attempted a poor pull off Swann just before lunch, the advantage with England at the break.
David Warner then left for 60, and after George Bailey pulled Broad to Kevin Pietersen for seven, the hosts were wobbling on 143-5.
However, as the heat grew, so did Steve Smith’s confidence and alongside Brad Haddin, he drove Australia back in front. England’s bowlers began to tire, and boundaries came easily. Haddin hit his way to 55, before another mis-hit pull, this time off Ben Stokes, sailed into the hands of Jimmy Anderson.
Mitchell Johnson continued Haddin’s good work, and completed the hosts’ good work to end the day on 326-6.