Katich boosts Test claim with timely hundred
Simon Katich and Michael Clarke warmed-up in style for the first Test against West Indies next week with centuries
Cricinfo staff
25-Oct-2005
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Simon Katich and Michael Clarke warmed-up for the first Test next week in style with centuries on day one of the Pura Cup match against South Australia at the SCG. Katich has failed to seal a long-term place in the national side this year - he struggled in the Super Test with 0 and 2 - but he showed a return to form with an unbeaten 139 and, helped by a lively Clarke, steered New South Wales to 2 for 338 at stumps.
Reaching his 15th century in the competition three overs before tea, Katich, who won the toss and batted, moved to fifty from 61 balls before his pace slowed on the way to three figures and beyond. The relief of ending a lean trot showed when he swept Daniel Cullen from his 165th delivery and rushed excitedly towards the dressing room to celebrate his hundred before hugging Clarke. Australia are expected to name the squad for the first West Indies Test on Thursday.
Clarke, who belted 13 fours and a six, took advantage of an attack battling without the injured Jason Gillespie and Shaun Tait on his way to 115 not out. Starting calmly, Clarke was 34 at tea but he dominated the final session, which was delayed by rain, and brought up his century from 149 balls.
South Australia managed a wicket in each of the first two sessions on a long day for the visitors. Phil Jaques, who combined with Katich in a 127-run partnership at almost six an over, fell to a superb take at cover from Greg Blewett for 69 and Greg Mail edged Paul Rofe in the sixth over.