Chris Rogers, Shane Watson and George Bailey all hit half-centuries for Australia as they made it to 273 for five at the close of the first day of the second Ashes Test in Adelaide.
While England bowled tightly, they were left to reflect on a string of dropped catches as they attempted to bounce back after losing the first Test in Brisbane by 381 runs.
Michael Clarke won his second successive toss and Australia looked on track for a big score at 155 for one.
But both Watson (51) and Rogers (72) fell in quick succession, as the hosts slipped to 174 for four.
A stand of 83 for the fifth wicket between Clarke (48 not out) and Bailey (53) got the hosts back on track, before Bailey was caught by Graeme Swann off Stuart Broad.
Broad was the pick of the English attack, taking two for 63.
England had made two changes with Ben Stokes making his Test debut in place of Joanthan Trott, while spinner Monty Panesar replaced Chris Tremlett.
With Clarke still at the crease, Australia will feel they have the upperhand going into Friday’s second day’s play.
