Warner puts ton of pressure on Kiwis in Brisbane Test

David Warner led a blazing Australian run assault against New Zealand with his 13th Test century on the opening day of the first Test at the Gabba on Thursday.

The pugnacious vice-captain put the Australians firmly in command after winning the toss to post his ton off 141 balls with 14 fours and a six.

Warner put on a 161-run stand with Joe Burns before losing his new opening partner just before the middle session drinks.

At tea, Australia were steaming along at 222 for one with Warner unconquered on 113 and the recalled Usman Khawaja not out 30.

It was Warner's second century against New Zealand and he had few problems against the Black Caps attack to give the Australians a solid platform heading into the three-Test series.
Burns completed his third consecutive Test half-century before he edged Tim Southee to wicketkeeper BJ Watling for 71.

Burns, opening the innings after batting at number six in his previous two Test appearances against India last home season, made the most of his opportunity after not being chosen for this year's Ashes series in England.

He batted for 183 minutes and hit 12 fours in his solid 120-ball knock.

But it was a deflating opening two sessions for the Black Caps, who are looking for their first series win in Australia for 30 years.

Skipper Brendon McCullum tried to vary his attack by placing eight men on the off-side for Warner, facing Southee, only to quickly change the field setting.

Warner (39) survived a review for leg before wicket off Bracewell after replays showed the ball pitching outside leg stump, and shortly after he smashed Bracewell straight over the sight screen for six.

Pakistan-born Khawaja has another chance to consolidate a place in the Australia team after he was named at number three, pushing skipper Steve Smith down to four in the batting order.

Khawaja has had a stop-start career in his nine Tests since making his debut against England in Sydney in 2011, amassing just 377 runs at 25.13.

Source: AFP