Australia reach 273-5 on opening day of 2nd Ashes Test

ADELAIDE: Stuart Broad took two wickets as England took the honors on Thursday´s opening day of the second Ashes test, restricting Australia to 273-5 on a docile pitch made for scoring runs.

Skipper Michael Clarke, who won the toss and chose to bat, was unbeaten on 48 at stumps, having shared an important 83-run fifth-wicket stand with George Bailey (53) after Australia lost three quick wickets just before tea, negating a strong start which saw the hosts coast to 155-1.

Australia´s top-order all made starts but were out to poor shots, except Steve Smith who was bowled by recalled spinner Monty Panesar.

England could have been in an even better position but dropped three catches in the last session including Michael Carberry´s sitter off Brad Haddin just before stumps. (AP)