Siddle claims first ton against hapless Scots

Bowler Peter Siddle claimed his maiden first-class century as Australia A dominated Scotland on the second day of their four-day match in Edinburgh today.

Australia resumed on 335 for six at The Grange and Siddle made an unbeaten 103 before the tourists declared on 372 for eight.

It was the right-arm paceman’s best innings since a score of 87 for domestic side Victoria against Western Australia last September.

Scotland’s response was weak, as they slumped to a score of 149 all out in just 44 overs.

The home side were missing captain Kyle Coetzer and two other first-choice picks due to English county commitments and Australia bowler James Pattinson made hay of their middle order with figures of 3-16.

With four of the Australian line-up hoping to feature in the Ashes series with England later this year — Siddle, Steven Smith, Nathan Lyon and skipper Brad Haddin — they opted against enforcing the follow-on in favour of some batting practice.

However, Jordan Silk (22) and Usman Khawaja (eight) both lost their wickets quickly, while Alex Doolan narrowly missed out on a half-century after being trapped leg before by Calvin Burnett on 47.

Smith (18) also fell, but the Australians nonetheless ended the day with a 388-run lead on 164 for four.