Jaques taking nothing for granted

The 28-year-old, who replaced Justin Langer at the top of the order, had only played two Tests prior to this series but managed to follow up his 100 in Brisbane with 150 on the first day of the second Test in Hobart. But when asked if he thought he felt safe in his role, he was equivocal in his reply.

"I'm not too sure, mate," he said. "I suppose it's one for the selectors. At the end of the day I just want to make a big contribution to the Australian team and help us win the series."

Jaques was once again slow off the mark, struggling to cope with the new ball as he played and missed on several occasions, but blossomed later in the day.

"I suppose after that first little period in that first hour where it seamed around a little bit I wanted to be a bit more positive and have a little bit more intent and back myself a bit more," he said.

"After that I expressed myself better and it worked out pretty good."

Having been dismissed for exactly 100 in Brisbane, Jaques admitted he had been desperate to pile on the runs this time out.

"I think all batters get dirty when they get out just after 100 and I really wanted to make a big hundred," he said.

"But was it enough? Well it is never enough and I think all batters get dirty when they get out and I was as dirty as anyone when I got out."

Ausralia, who lead the two-match series 1-0, finished the day on 329 for three, with Mike Hussey reaching stumps unbeaten on 101.