Australian stars finally find form ahead of Ashes opener

SYDNEY - Australia’s faltering preparations for the upcoming Ashes series have finally received a boost following strong performances by key players Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson and Shane Watson.

Hussey secured his Test spot with a much-needed century, while Johnson snared five wickets, as Western Australia dominated against Victorian Bushrangers in their Sheffield Shield match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The innings was Hussey’s last chance to prove to the selectors that he was worthy of a spot, and he followed his first-innings 18-ball duck with a smooth 118.

Johnson took 5 for 35 to trigger a Bushrangers collapse that delivered the Warriors first-innings points for the first time this season.

At the Sydney Cricket Ground, all-rounder Watson took 5 for 39 as New South Wales came within one wicket of claiming a miraculous victory over Tasmania, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Watson’s scalps included the wicket of Australian skipper Ricky Ponting, who was dismissed for 27, and Xavier Doherty (nought).(ANI)