Cricket: Big three claimed by Jones.

Byline: By MARTIN ROGERS

SIMON JONES was first amongst equals yesterday as he snared three crucial wickets to give England a major third Test advantage.

Jones got rid of Aussie captain Ricky Ponting with the first ball after tea - then struck again with the first ball of his third spell to remove danger man Adam Gilchrist.

Freddie Flintoff also chipped in with a wicket in the first ball after drinks in the evening session as Michael Vaughan's men left the visitors on 210-7 after day two.

Jones' third wicket was that of injured Australian Michael Clarke, who was the last of his side's recognised batsmen to depart.

They still need 35 more runs to avoid the follow-on and spinner Ashley Giles heaped praise on Jones for his key scalps.

He said: "Simon bowled very well and struck just when we needed him to. He showed just how dangerous he can be and has put us in a good position.

"If we can finish Australia off tomorrow then we'll be right in there with a very good chance."

If Australia are made to follow on, it will be the first time in 17 years and 190 Tests. The last time was against Pakistan in Karachi in 1998, a match they comprehensively lost.

Giles added: "To have Australia in this situation is good for us. But I don't know what the captain will decide to do."

CAPTION(S):

VAUGHAN: Happy