SYDNEY, Nov 12: Opener Phil Jaques hit his second century against England in three days to help put New South Wales state in a strong position against the visitors on the first day of a three-day match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Simon Katich and Michael Clarke added half-centuries as the Blues reached 325-5 at stumps.

Jaques hit 11 fours and two sixes in his 107, which came just 48 hours after he hit 112 for the Prime Minister's XI in Canberra during a 166-run win for the invitational side in England's tour opener.

Despite his back-to-back centuries, Jaques isn't optimistic he'll unseat Australia's two established test openers, Matt Hayden and Justin Langer.

“The two guys that are there are fantastic players,” Jaques said. “That's a decision the selectors have to make and I'm expecting they will go with those two.

“That's my expectation at the moment, but you just never know in cricket and if I'm given an opportunity I'd love it.””

Katich scored 68 in a 155-run stand with Jaques, while Clarke made 50.

Wicketkeeper Daniel Smith was 36 not out and allrounder Moises Henriques 25 not out at the close of play.

With both sides able to play 14 men - 11 batters - England gave four fast bowlers a start, but only Steve Harmison and James Anderson claimed a wicket each.

Spinner Ashley Giles, who had Jaques and Katich both caught in the outfield, was England's most successful bowler and finished the day with figures of 2-46.

England has another tour match against South Australia before the first Ashes Test against Australia begins on Nov. 23 in Brisbane.

Scores:

New South Wales 325-5 (Phil Jaques 107, Simon Katich 68, Michael Clarke 50; Ashley Giles 2-46). —AP