Perth: Three out of the top four batsman scored half-centuries for Australia, propelling the Aussies to 339 for 3 at the close of play on Day 1 of the third and deciding test match against the West Indies at Perth.

At stumps, Michael Hussey was batting on a well compiled 81 while Marcus North was giving him company on 23. Australia skipper Ricky Ponting won the toss and elected to bat first. Shane Watson and Simon Katich gave their team a solid start once again, adding 132 for the first wicket.

Watson smashed 89 runs off just 130 balls, which included 15 fours, before he was dismissed caught behind off the bowling of Kemar Roach. Skipper Ricky Ponting was the next man in and he had to retire hurt on 23 after being hit on his elbow by a sharp rising delivery from Kemar Roach.

Michael Hussey joined Simon Katich in the middle and both of them scored quickly, adding 85 runs before Katich was unfortunately dismissed just one short of what would have been a well deserved test hundred. Katich hit 10 fours in his innings of 99 off 177 balls.

Michael Clarke (11) was the next man to go as he miscued an aerial shot off the bowling of Deonarine to short mid-wicket where Gayle took a comfortable catch.

Michael Hussey and Marcus North ensured that there were no further hiccups taking Australia to a commanding position of 339 for 3 at stumps. Australia are 1-0 up in the series after they won the first test at Brisbane while the second test at Adelaide ended in a draw.

Brief Scores:

Australia 3 for 339 (Katich 99, Watson 89, Hussey 81*) v West Indies

Tagged with: Australia, Kemar Roach, Michael Hussey, Perth, Ricky Ponting, Shane Watson, Simon Katich, West Indies

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