Nathan Hauritz has helped to put Australia (2/7 to win the Test on coupon) in prime position during the first Test in Melbourne as Pakistan have been left reeling.

Night watchman Hauritz scored 75 and Michael Hussey got 82 as Australia dominated with the bat until they declared on 454-4.

Hauritz also starred with the ball and was among the wickets as Pakistan (33/1 to win the test on coupon) only managed to score 109-4 before the close of play on day two – which leaves them struggling to avoid the follow on in Melbourne.

Shane Watson, Mitchell Johnson, Hauritz, Doug Bollinger and Peter Siddle in the Australian bowling attack got a combined total of 17 maidens as the visitors struggled on a run rate of 2.22 per over.

Hauritz said he was happy with his night watchman role and really enjoyed his time batting with Hussey.

“The wicket’s still very good, it’s only day two obviously. I think it’s just a matter of being extremely disciplined in our areas and probably getting that last wicket is very crucial,” he said.

“We had a pretty good day in the end there but they’ve still got some very good batting to come.”

Don’t miss your chance to check out Totesport.com’s international match bets and ante-post opportunities.