The Ashes 2013 – 5th Test, Day 2: Steve Smith's maiden century helps Australia post 492

Steve Smith scored his maiden Test cenury

Resuming the day on 307 for 4, Australia managed to score 492 runs for the loss of nine wickets before declaring their innings with around 20 overs left for England to see off the day. England, in reply, ended the day with 32 runs on the board for the loss of no wickets in 17.3 overs.

Around 35 overs were lost as the rains delayed the start to the day. Peter Siddle was shown the way out early in the day by a beautiful out-swinger from James Anderson. The batsmen who followed were unable to make big scores, but they did get starts to support Steve Smith, who, on resuming from the overnight score of 66, went on to score his first Test century.

With the exception of Simon Kerrigan who has had a disaster of a debut so far, all the other England bowlers were amongst the wickets. Even Jonathan Trott picked up a wicket, as Brad Haddin, on 30, inside edged a ball which was too full to attempt a late cut.

Anderson picked up four wickets for England while Steve Smith, making complete use of a good batting wicket, remained unbeaten on 138 as the declaration brought an end to his brilliant knock.

England openers Alastair Cook and Joe Root were solid in reply as they helped England see off the day without any damage. With the forecast indicating more rains to follow and the pitch remaining good to bat, this match looks like coasting towards a dull draw.