Matt Critchley claimed the wickets of Steve Smith and Mitchell Marsh on Day Two of the Aston Lark Tourist Fixture against Australia.
Having missed the third Ashes Test through concussion protocol, Smith’s much-anticipated return to the crease garnered just 23 runs before he was dismissed by Critchley, who also dismissed Marsh for 74.
Usman Khawaja struck 72 for the visitors, who declared on 338-5, before Derbyshire finished the day on 53-3, with Alex Hughes not out on 11 and Leus du Plooy unbeaten on nine, trailing by 113.
Marcus Harris and Khawaja moved their overnight partnership of 77 into three-figures in the 33rd over, before the latter was run out by the debuting Dustin Melton for 64.
Khawaja batted on and reached his half-century in 127 balls, six fours as Australia moved beyond 150 and closer to a first innings lead, heading into lunch on 169-1.
Shortly after the interval, Anuj Dal made the breakthrough by bowling Khawaja for a well-made 72, which brought Smith to the crease.
During a partnership of 58 with Smith, Marsh brought up his half-century in 82 balls, including six fours. The all-rounder then hit Hamidullah Qadri for the only six of his innings.
Having made 23 runs, Smith was unable to put on a big score ahead of the fourth Ashes Test, as Critchley had the Australia batsman caught by Qadri, before also claiming the wicket of Marsh (74) soon after.
After top-scoring with 86 on Day One, Leus du Plooy made his mark on the second afternoon when he had Matthew Wade (12) caught by Qadri, as the visitors went to tea 293-5, leading by 121.
After adding 45 runs after the interval, Australia declared on 338-5, with a lead of 166.
Billy Godleman and Luis Reece opened for Derbyshire, but the captain could only manage 13 before he was bowled by Mitchell Stard, leaving the hosts 14-1.
Reece (14) fell shortly before the close of play, as Derbyshire ended the day 53-3, still trailing by 113 heading into the final morning at The Pattonair County Ground.
The Aussies are coming! Derbyshire face Australia in the three-day Aston Lark Tourist Fixture from Thur 29 – Sat 31 August. Buy on the gate and see world-class Test cricketers in Derby.
