Australia declare at 598-4 in first Test against West Indies

PERTH: Australia declared their first innings at an ominous 598-4 Thursday after Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith smacked double centuries, leaving the West Indies facing an uphill battle to stay in the first Test.

The home side resumed day two at Perth Stadium on 293-2 and skipper Pat Cummins called time some 15 minutes after the tea break.

Labuschagne hits 154 as Australia take control against West Indies

Smith was unbeaten on 200 after moving alongside Donald Bradman with a 29th Test ton.

Labuschagne was out for 204 just before lunch, while Travis Head made 99, with Cummins making the declaration when he departed.

The West Indies have not won a Test in Australia in 25 years.