ADELAIDE, Oct 25 AAP - Highly rated New South Wales youngster Michael Clarke was unbeaten on 79 at tea, helping the Blues to 4-203 in their first innings on day one of their Pura Cup cricket match against South Australia at Adelaide Oval today.

Former Australian Test opener Michael Slater, batting at No.6, was also at the crease on 40 after sharing an entertaining, unbroken partnership of 91 with Clarke.

The pair helped NSW get on top after starting the session at 3-85.

Clarke's dashing innings included several edges through slips, and a difficult dropped catch at second slip by Mark Higgs from Greg Blewett's bowling when he was on 74.

But it also included many fine shots, particularly several beautifully-timed drives to the cover boundary.

Blues skipper Simon Katich was the only batsman to fall between lunch and tea, out for 27 in disappointing style when he top-edged a cut shot to provide Paul Rofe with an easy catch at backward point from off-spinner John Davison's bowling.

© 2002 AAP

This report does not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Cricket Board.