Rogers century gives Victoria strong lead

Victoria 3 for 331 (Rogers 159, Hodge 66, Hussey 59*) lead New South Wales 261 by 70 runs
Scorecard

	Chris Rogers celebrates his 150 © Fred Kelly Enlarge

Chris Rogers made his first century for his new state Victoria and helped them cruise to a first-innings lead over New South Wales at the SCG. At stumps on the second day Victoria had extended their advantage to 70 and were 3 for 331 with David Hussey unbeaten on 59 and the nightwatchman Darren Pattinson yet to score.

Rogers fell for 159 in the second-last over when he was caught off Nathan Hauritz, who picked up two wickets. But the six-hour innings from Rogers, who shifted from Western Australia during the off-season was enough to anchor a very strong performance from the Bushrangers.

He had assistance late in the day from Hussey and earlier from Brad Hodge, whose 66 featured two sixes. Hodge departed when he tried to scamper through for a quick single and was caught short by the combined efforts of Peter Forrest and the wicketkeeper Daniel Smith.

The only other success on a disappointing day for the Blues was the removal of Nick Jewell (38), who was caught trying to go over the top against Hauritz. But the star was Rogers, who has already proved a valuable signing for Victoria and is the state's leading first-class run scorer so far this season.