Sydney, Jan 3: Former Australian fast bowler Geoff Lawson feels bowlers from both sides did superbly to dismiss 13 batsmen on Day 1 of the Sydney Test. Speaking at stumps, Lawson said that bowling the right length was key and he was pleased to see the Australian fast bowlers stick to it on the tour so far.

On the 13 wickets that fell on Day 1

Well, I think that is the most number of wickets [to fall] on the first day here ever. Bounce, a good amount of grass and some very good bowling from both the sides. The batsmen have just not been able [to stand] up to it.

On the Australian pace trio

Good bowling. Both here and in Melbourne, the Australians kept the ball swinging the entire day. We have seen [batting] technique that has been great in limited-overs cricket and [on the] subcontinent [but has failed here]. The guys keep going hard at the ball and get into trouble.

On the batsmen’s dismal show

It is traditional Test cricket – see the new ball off, remove the shine. Look to [be] maybe two, or at worst, three, down at lunch and then look to build on it. It is the job of the openers.

On the SCG track

I think by Day 3 it will be a very good batting surface. [On Day 2] I think India have a chance with the bowling. They should try and get some extra movement there and I am sure that they will see that.

On James Pattinson

He is a big, strong guy. He bowls at 145 and 145 [kmph-] plus. We saw him here as a 19-year-old. He looked promising while playing for Victoria. He has been a revelation for Australia.

On the length bowled and the pattern of dismissals

Most of the wickets are falling off the full-length deliveries. The upper order is mostly falling while playing forward defensive or getting out lbw. I think credit to the bowlers.