"In a drama-charged third day at the Gabba, West Australian streetfighter Hussey put Australia in a commanding position in the first Test by blasting a magnificient 195 that was hailed by legendary former Test captain Richie Benaud as his greatest Test knock.The 330-masterpiece surpassed his 182 against Bangladesh at Chittagong in 2006 and Mr Cricket found a lethal ally in Brad Haddin, who clubbed 136 as the pair bludgeoned the old enemy to compile the greatest sixth-wicket partnership in Brisbane."
Pretty much sums up a day 3 that saw Australia finish in a commanding position, and likely a good session away from sealing the first test.
Starting the day with a slender lead England needed early wickets. The fact they didn't wasn't for a lack of effort; James Anderson was excellent and unfortunate not to make early inroads and was on the wrong end of two referral decisions. His opening spell saw just fourteen runs conceded from eight overs, whilst for the day he returned figures of 37-13-99-2.
As lunch approached however, both Hussey and Haddin opened up as England's total was surpassed and the afternoon session saw them post a number of records on route to establishing a healthy lead, with Hussey reflecting:
"It was a fantastic feeling. The Ashes is what you dream of, to score a hundred in the first Test is a dream come true."
England of course have much to do to save the Test, let alone in being able to set Australia a difficult target on the final day. Most of the batsman got starts first time round yet couldn't convert into the scores that Hussey and Haddin made.
To have a chance of saving the first Test, England have to perform to similar level.
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