Hayden flexes his muscles as Aussies roar back

Australia wasted little time in getting back into the groove today as Matthew Hayden blasted a quickfire half-century in the 50-overs warm-up game against Somerset at Taunton.

With the stakes raised after Monday's embarrassing collapse against England, they put themselves on course for a huge total by hurtling to 101 for two after 17 overs.

Hayden raced to 76, his third score above 50 on the tour, before being retiring out as Somerset faced the backlash of dented Australia pride.

Keen to give his rusty middle order some time at the crease, skipper Ricky Ponting elected to bat after winning the toss on what is widely regarded as the best batting track in the country.

Somerset, ever the generous hosts, gave the tourists the best possible chance of shaking off their rustiness by fielding a coltish attack missing their three best bowlers - Andrew Caddick, Richard Johnson and Nixon McLean - all apparently to genuine injuries.

Hayden signalled his intentions by easing the first ball of the match through the covers for four and raced to his 50 off 39 balls, including eight fours, without breaking sweat.