Watson shines as Queensland seize two points

Queensland 3 for 178 (Love 77*, Hayden 55) lead New South Wales 169 (Haddin 43, Watson 4-34) by 9 runs
Scorecard

Shane Watson's impressive comeback from shoulder surgery gave him hope of a national recall as Queensland grabbed first-innings points by the end of the opening day against New South Wales. Watson's 4 for 34 in front of Trevor Hohns, the chairman of selectors, helped dismiss the Blues for 169 on a surface offering helpful bounce, and the Bulls held a nine-run lead at stumps.

The only downside for Watson, who partially dislocated his shoulder in the first Test against West Indies, was that he was one of the fallen batsmen and made only 2. Matthew Hayden had a successful return from illness with 55 while Martin Love pushed his side past the NSW total with an unbeaten 77.

Queensland's catching was outstanding as they rocked New South Wales in 39 overs after Brad Haddin had decided to bat. Six chances were accepted in the cordon and none was better than Chris Hartley's diving effort to remove Phil Jaques for 30. Haddin collected a brisk 43 before becoming Andy Bichel's second wicket, and Watson quickly closed the innings with three blows. The Bulls are currently in fourth spot on 18 points, two behind the leaders New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria.