Shane Watson justified the faith shown in him by new coach Darren Lehmann and Michael Clarke made a sharp return to batting from injury against Somerset on Thursday.

Bruising opener Watson smashed 90 runs from 93 balls with 80 of his runs coming from boundaries.

But in the over before lunch he was caught at cover from a leading edge.

The Australians were four for 266 at tea, 54 runs behind on the first innings, with rain falling.

Skipper Clarke hadn’t had an innings in three months since the third Test in Mohali, but looked strong on his way to 45.

Under-pressure batsman Phil Hughes was taking his opportunity down the order at No.5 with both hands to be 44 not out.

Keeper Brad Haddin smashed two sixes in his unbeaten 38.

A lot of pressure has now fallen on what Ed Cowan can produce in the second innings after the opener was caught behind for three in the first over of day two.

Usman Khawaja also missed a golden chance to cement a first Test berth, eventually weakening under pressure from Somerset’s quicks to edge to second slip for 27.

It would seem out of Chris Rogers, Cowan and Khawaja, there may only be room for two in Australia’s line-up for the first Test at Trent Bridge.

Watson’s innings showcased exactly what Lehmann is after at the top of the order; a man who can stand and deliver.

The 32-year-old hit powerfully through the field and drove particularly well through the covers.