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Michael Clarke puts Australia in control

Clarke ton puts Australia in control
© PA Photos
A Michael Clarke century puts Australia in control of the first Test against New Zealand in Brisbane.

Australia captain Michael Clarke led from the front as he scored a century to put his side in control of the first Test against New Zealand at the Gabba.

Clarke's ton, along with half-centuries from Brad Haddin (80) and Ricky Ponting (78) helped the Aussies amass a first innings total of 427 in Brisbane.

Seamer Chris Martin was the pick of the visitors' bowling attack, recording figures of 3-89 including the wickets of Clarke (139) and Ponting.

That gave them a lead of 132 ahead of the Black Caps' second innings, which began late on day three.

Young paceman James Pattinson dismissed the dangerous Brendan McCullum in the final over of the day as New Zealand closed on 10-1.

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Joe Fish
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