AFP, Christchurch :
James Pattinson, smarting from being bawled out after a no-ball error in the first innings, put Australia firmly in control of the second Test against New Zealand with a crucial triple-strike on Monday.
Australia finished the third day at Hagley Oval in Christchurch eyeing a comprehensive victory with Pattinson ripping the top off New Zealand as they tried to mount a second innings recovery.
They were 121 for 4 at stumps on the third day, with Pattinson taking three for 29, after Australia amassed a first innings 505 for a 135-run lead.
Pattinson removed New Zealand openers Martin Guptill (0) and Tom Latham (39), both caught behind by Peter Nevill, and Henry Nicholls who was nabbed at second slip by Steve Smith for two.
The one wicket he missed was Brendon McCullum, in his farewell innings, who fell to Josh Hazlewood for 25.
It was a much more disciplined effort from Pattinson who had McCullum caught for 39 in the first innings only for the wicket to be ruled out because of a no ball and McCullum added another 106 rapid runs before he was dismissed.
“To come back from the disappointment of the no ball in the first innings and to produce that today is a terrific effort,” teammate Adam Voges said.
“The coach didn’t miss him after play on day one and that’s probably putting it nicely. He got a rocket.
“He probably didn’t disagree with what the coach said. But full credit to Patto with the way he has bounced back, he was excellent today (Monday).”
