James Pattinson continues to firm as Australia’s spearhead for the Ashes, after dominating again with the ball against Somerset on Friday.

Pattinson had three wickets by tea, with Somerset four for 168 in their second innings, giving them a 167-run lead with four sessions left to play in the practice match.

Earlier, Phil Hughes produced a timely 76 not out but the Australians put team first by declaring early on day three in Taunton.

Hughes looked comfortable at the crease, pocketing 12 boundaries in an innings which may go along way to helping save his position for the first Test at Trent Bridge.

However, the left-hander was robbed of a chance to push for a century when Michael Clarke made it clear he’s playing for the win by declaring with just a one-run lead at five for 321.

The Australians haven’t been able to roll through Somerset as quickly as they might have liked, with openers Marcus Trescothick (32) and Nick Compton (34) starting well.

However, Pattinson (3-49) came to life with his aggressive approach, having his victims out caught behind, bowled and lbw.

Australia’s bowling depth is so great, the attack for the first Test in Nottingham remains up in the air, however Pattinson will almost certainly be there.

The Victorian took 4-56 in the first innings.

Spinner Nathan Lyon claimed the other wicket for figures of 1-39 at the tea break.

Hughes’ demotion to No.5 for the tour match indicates he’s got some work to do to play in the Test series.

He’s certainly dropped in the pecking order for top three positions, but Hughes showed perhaps he could work as a middle-order batsman during his composed 163 minutes at the crease.

James Faulkner was the other not out batsman for the Australians with 22, an important contribution as he builds his case for first Test inclusion.

New coach Darren Lehmann made it clear he wanted to see runs from Faulkner for the Tasmanian to force his way in as a fourth pace bowling option.

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