Restraint pays dividends for wicketkeeper Brad Haddin

When Australia has been in trouble in this Ashes series, Brad Haddin has been the fireman, rescuing his team from perilous situations. In similar circumstances two years ago, he was pouring petrol on the fire.

In making 55 to steady Australia on day one at the WACA Ground, the veteran became only the fourth wicketkeeper to make four consecutive scores of at least 50. The first, the West Indies' Clyde Walcott, died in 2006, but the other two were in Perth to witness Haddin in action: Andy Flower (who, remarkably, got seven) as England's coach, and Adam Gilchrist for his induction to the International Cricket Council's Hall of Fame.

Twice when Australia has stumbled on the opening morning of a Test this series it has been the recalled veteran Haddin who has played vital roles in the recovery - from 5-100 in Brisbane and 5-143 on Friday in Perth. But two summers ago, he was one of the main lightning rods in two of Australia's worst losses, away to South Africa in Cape Town and at home to New Zealand in Hobart.