Cricket: Lyon and Pattinson star against Somerset

Nathan Lyon and James Pattinson took three wickets apiece as Australia moved into a strong position on the third day of their tour match against Somerset at Taunton on Friday.

Australia, in their first match under new coach Darren Lehmann, declared their first innings on 321 for five, a lead of one run, with Phil Hughes unbeaten on 76.

The tourists then responded by dismissing Somerset for 260, with paceman Pattinson taking three for 61 and off-spinner Lyon three for 73.

James Hildreth made 75 and Peter Trego 60, but the tourists were still left with a victory target of 260 and, when bad light forced an early close on the third day of four, they were 36 without loss.

Play started Friday with Australia vice-captain Brad Haddin falling to Jamie Overton’s first ball for his overnight 38.

But from then on Australia took charge with Hughes, 44 not out overnight, completing an 88-ball fifty.

Somerset were 62 without loss in their second innings before Marcus Trescothick was caught behind off Pattinson and the same bowler then had first innings century-maker Chris Jones lbw.

Lyon then got on the act as Australia ended the day well-placed.

They have one more tour match, against Worcestershire next week, before starting their bid to regain the Ashes with the first Test against England at Trent Bridge starting on July 10.