An attacking half-century from Xavier Marshall highlighted yesterday’s second-day’s play of the second four-day Trial match at Melbourne Oval as Bernard’s XI ended the day strongly on 244 for four against Lambert’s XI.

 The out-of-favour West Indies opener slammed 13 fours in his knock of 69 from 70 balls after Bernard’s XI resumed on their overnight score of 10 without loss.

 He shared in an opening stand of 114 with Brenton Parchment, who made 27, before left-arm medium pacer Krishmar Santokie (1-47) and left-arm orthodox spinner Nikita Miller (1-36) struck in quick succession.

 Shawn Findlay (39) failed to carry on after a getting a decent start, as left-arm chinaman spinner Andre Dwyer (2-9) stemmed the flow of runs with two quick wickets.

 However, Horace Miller (40no) and wicketkeeper/batsman Maverick Perry (25no) – in an unbroken 66-run fifth-wicket partnership – ensured that Bernard’s XI had the upper hand, leading by 62 runs.

 And come today they will be looking to press home their advantage after good work by bowlers dismissed Lambert’s XI for 182 on the opening day.

 The match continues this morning, beginning at 10 o’clock.