Marcus North scored 106 not out to cement his Test place and steer Australia to 275 for four at the close against England Lions on Friday after the third day of their final practice match before next week’s Ashes series.

North, using his experience of representing five English county teams, justified Australia’s decision to promote him two places to number four to allow him extra batting practice before the first Test at Cardiff on Wednesday.

“Leading into an Ashes series there is pressure to score runs, especially when you have only played two Tests,” North told reporters. “I needed to cement that position of mine. I’m pleased that my hard work has paid off.”  

North combined in a fourth-wicket stand of 170 with Michael Clarke, who made 80. Australia led by 281 runs at stumps. Fast bowler Steve Harmison boosted his chances of a Test recall by taking the wickets of Phillip Hughes and Ricky Ponting.

“I’m happy with the way I’ve bowled, it’s always nice to get a chance to play against Australia, but as good as Michael Clarke and Marcus North played, half-way through today the ball was soft, the wicket was dead and the game was going nowhere.”

Before lunch, the Lions were dismissed for 352 as Adil Rashid hit 66 and Australia paceman Brett Lee claimed six for 76 and was denied a career best only because wicketkeeper Brad Haddin dropped a routine chance off Harmison. 

North, who will be 30 this month, only made his Test debut in February and scored 117 against South Africa in his first Test innings. His latest effort will strengthen his position in the Australia side.

His straight drive for four against fast bowler Graham Onions that took him to 62 was a typical show of authority that marked his innings. He reached his century in 168 balls with 13 fours.

His stand with Clarke ended when part-time spinner Vikram Solanki had him caught at long-on.