We've run a fine tooth comb over the Gabba Test and identified the positives and areas to work on ahead of the second Test, which starts on Friday.
Batting - pass...
Mike Hussey and Brad Haddin earned Australia's batsmen a pass mark, but their record fifth-wicket stand drew attention away from another sub-par performance with the blade. Marcus North will again find himself under severe pressure after another failure when Australia were under the pump.
Bowling - fail...
Apart from Peter Siddle's devastating spell late on day one, Australia's attack looked toothless and bereft of options. Mitchell Johnson's position in the side will come under serious scrutiny before the second Test after going wicketless for the first time in his Test career.
Fielding - fail...
Nothing summed up Australia's fielding performance more than Michael Clarke's dropped catch in the first session on day five. It was one of five dropped chances in England's second innings, which was not what the Aussie bowlers deserved as they toiled hard on a lifeless pitch.
Selection - pass...
Peter Siddle and Mike Hussey were Australia's star performers in Brisbane, which is credit to Australia's four-man selection panel. The two most contentious selections were justified when Australia moved into a winning position after three days, which would have brought a smile to Andrew Hilditch's face.
Overall – pass...
A draw is better than a loss, but there were some worrying signs so early in the series. Mitchell Johnson and Marcus North will be under serious pressure to retain their place in the side, but a lack of form players in domestic cricket may save them for the second Test. The ability to take twenty wickets and win a Test is a big concern after they took just one in almost two days in the field.
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