The Australians are playing for a result in their tour match against Somerset in Taunton, after declaring with a one-run first-innings lead.

Less than an hour into play on day three, the Australians declared at 5-321 and will back their quicks to propel them into a winning position.

Somerset were bowled out on day one for 320.

Phil Hughes finished 76 not out for the Australians and, despite being deprived of a chance to make a pre-Ashes hundred, the under-pressure left-hander would have gained much confidence from his untroubled 163 minutes at the crease.

Bowling allrounder James Faulkner was unbeaten on 22, a timely contribution with new coach Darren Lehmann saying he wanted to see runs from the Tasmanian ahead of the first Test in less than two weeks.

Wicketkeeper Brad Haddin was out lbw for 38 on the first ball of day three.

However, Hughes was in a nice rhythm and guided the Australians to the total with 12 boundaries in his innings.

On day two, Shane Watson smashed 90 from 94 balls and Michael Clarke made 45 in an impressive return from three months on the injured list.