Australia's batsmen make hay while the sun shines

Australia cherished further batting practice on the final morning of their last warm-up game in Worcester before their Ashes defence begins Wednesday in Cardiff.

While England's preparations in the three-day match against Warwickshire at Edgbaston were unsettled by rain and a weak opponent, Ricky Ponting has seen his probable Ashes starters truly tested against the Lions, England's A side.

And the tourists have responded well, piling up 438 for four by lunch for a 444-run lead with two sessions remaining.

The only minor doubt hovers over Mike Hussey, who was forced to retire hurt with a sore ankle on 62.

Australia's top seven have all posted half-centuries in their two warm-up matches and, Phillip Hughes' troubles with the short ball aside, batted intelligently at New Road against a strong Lions attack and on a flat pitch expected to play similarly to Sophia Gardens next week.

Resuming at 276-4, Marcus North - who had been doubtful about his place in the side prior to this following a series of low scores - offered a knee-high caught and bowled chance to Stephen Harmison on 120 on the march to an unbeaten 191.

Hussey's run-a-ball knock included a pulled six over backwards square leg off Graham Onions before Brad Haddin (25 not out) inflicted further misery on the Lions.

Hussey - the man known as 'Mr Cricket' - scored 150 in the first innings to dispel any suggestion his international powers were on the wane.

Australia's XI for the Cardiff opener has become clearer with North's first innings of substance on the tour cementing his position at No.6.

Brett Lee, the only Australian bowler with Ashes experience in England, is expected to feature after returning figures of six wickets for 76 runs in 27 overs in the first innings, while the final place is a straight choice between off-spinner Nathan Hauritz and Stuart Clark.

The England selectors, who name their extended squad for the first Test on Sunday morning, were here in Worcester keeping a close eye on Durham pair Harmison and Onions (0-74).

Harmison, who on Friday said he expected to be overlooked in preference of two spinners, again returned his side's best figures of 2-55.