West Indies in uphill battle

They were 182-6 in reply to Australia’s 453 all out when bad light ended play early, still 53 runs short of avoiding the follow-on.

"I think we’re in a pretty difficult position," said Smith, who made 88. "We need to go out (today) and try and get as close as we can to their total. It’ll be a challenge." Smith had his sights on a second Test century when he offered no stroke to a ball from McGrath shortly before the close but misjudged the line and was bowled.

It was a disappointing end to a brave innings during which he received treatment after being struck on the helmet by a Brett Lee bouncer. "I had a headache all day, but it’s OK now," said Smith. "I was so motivated by facing bowlers like Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee so I didn’t think about it."

McGrath, meanwhile, was delighted with his four wickets, which lifted his career total to 525 in 114 Tests.

"I have always enjoyed bowling to the West Indies and have done quite well, especially over there on their wickets. They’re definitely a team I always admired growing up. The West Indies teams of the mid-80s were an awesome side."

He added: "I’ve bowled a lot better than that but it’s the type of wicket that you’ve got to remain patient on.

"We’re in a good position and if we can have a good first session (on Saturday) and knock them over and hopefully have a good first innngs lead then I’m sure we’ll be putting the pads on again and trying to get a big lead."