Monday, April 17 2006 14:46 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Chittagong (Bangladesh): Australia made steady progress to reach 151-2 after a rain-shortened opening session on the second day of the second and final Test against Bangldesh here today (Apr 17, 2006).

Jason Gillespie (28), sent in to see off the late overs yesterday, was batting with captain Ricky Pnting (19) when rain forced a stoppage of play and the umpires declared the lunch break 27 minutes before schedule.

Australia, who had dismissed Bangladesh for just 197 in their first innings, looked set to repair the damage to their reputation after struggling in the opening Test against the emerging side.

They ensured a fine start to their innings with opener Phil Jacques scoring his maiden half-century in only his second Test match.

The left-hander struck 66 with eight fours and one six and was not afraid to play uppish shots in his 98-ball knock.

The 26-year-old looked set for a bigger knock but perished when he tried to sweep a ball from left-arm spinner Mohammad Rafique only to give an easy catch to Shahriar Nafees at mid-wicket.

Australia, expected to whip their lowly opponents, won the first Test in Fatullah by only three wickets.