An overwhelming gap

Dispirited and disillusioned after missing a huge opening, New Zealand struggled to whimper in a second innings lacking spirit. At stumps on the second day they were in charge of a wrestle that was swiftly lost to familiar foes. No breath was left following an unbelievable partnership between Jason Gillespie and Glenn McGrath, and they collapsed for 76.

Centuries by Michael Clarke and Adam Gilchrist gained Australia an advantage that rushed them 97 ahead, but at that stage New Zealand were still in the match. It was the staggering collection of the No. 9 and 11 that broke them, as ironic cheers grew into genuine admiration. "We all know how hard Jason and Glenn work on their batting, and it's great to see them getting results," Ricky Ponting said. Extending their partnership to 114 this morning, the pair inflicted more damage and earned Gillespie his first half-century, which he marked with a Happy Gilmore horse-ride on his bat.

"To have that turn around so quickly was extremely tough to take," Stephen Fleming said. New Zealand's misery was compounded during the elongated fielding session and their humiliation grew once the second innings began. Balls that failed to deviate on long cracks from an attack worn down by 153 overs suddenly went at 45 degrees when McGrath and Gillespie took the new ball. A track flat good enough for two tailenders to share a record for the 10th wicket against New Zealand had become unplayable. Three poor decisions contributed to their demise and the innings was over so quickly that the Kiwi kill turned into a non-event.

Shane Warne told Aleem Dar to check the lbw law on the second day because he'd missed a few in his career. Dar's switch from a not-outer was abrupt, and Mathew Sinclair and Scott Styris had good reason to question the height when they were dismissed. A huge legcutter that scraped a crack and passed well outside Brendon McCullum's bat was later given out by Steve Bucknor.

The only fight was shown by Craig McMillan - through words rather than performance. McMillan stood his ground when Adam Gilchrist was convinced he'd inside-edged Gillespie, and their exchange continued until Bucknor loped down the pitch to calm the batsman. Next ball he fell lbw, and Gilchrist whooped.

The argument continued in front of the cameras on the boundary when the game finished. As both shook hands the only agreement seemed to be disagreement. But both captains said that the matter was done and dusted, and no official action was taken.

New Zealand have an extra day to regroup for the second Test, which starts at Adelaide on Friday - and they will need it. Australia noticed the change in their body language and pounced. "We got our noses in front and thought there was a chance we could finish things off today," said Ponting. "It probably happened a bit easier than we thought."