Katich, Clarke rip up Redbacks

Simon Katich and Michael Clarke have both staked their claim for a spot in the Australian Test side with both players scoring centuries on the first day of the Pura Cup match between New South Wales and South Australia.

The Redbacks salvaged a wicket in each of the first two sessions in a very long day in the field.

Paul Rofe had Greg Mail dismissed in the sixth over for nine runs, courtesy of an edge into the safe hands of Graham Manou while a scintillating take from Greg Blewett at cover off the bowling of Daniel Cullen dismissed Phil Jaques for 69 and ended a 127-run partnership between Jaques and Katich.

Katich reached the half-century off only 61 balls and then finally the three figures off 165 deliveries while Clarke, who smashed 13 fours and a six, defied critics with a well-earned century off 149 deliveries.

At stumps the Blues were 2-338 with Katich and Clarke not out on 139 and 115 respectively.

Play resumes at 10:30am (AEST) tomorrow.

•  Have a view on this story? Send us your feedback!