Adelaide, Dec 5 : Australia were 273/5 at the close of play on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test against England at the Adelaide Oval here Thursday.

Early showers interrupted the morning session but cleared as the day went on with Chris Rogers (72) and Shane Watson (51) putting on a 121-run partnership for the second wicket to help Australia to 155/1 at a point in the second session.

However, three quick wickets saw Australia slip to be four down for 174 at tea before skipper Michael Clarke and George Bailey came together to steady the innings. The pair put on a further 83 before Bailey holed out for 53.

At stumps, Clarke is unbeaten on 48 while wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin is on 7.

Australia lead the five match series 1-0.(IANS)