ADELAIDE, Australia -- Michael Atherton, on his first Ashes tour as captain, spoke Wednesday of his mission to restore England's credibility in Australia after a dismal recent record against the old enemy.


"I get the feeling the Australian public and their media have the impression that English cricket isn't what it should be," Atherton said as England prepared for Friday's four-day match against South Australia.


Atherton's belief that England is poorly regarded by Australians is borne out by losses in three successive Ashes series and only one victory against 12 losses in the last 18 Australian tests.


England arrived in Adelaide after a creditable draw in its opening first-class match against Western Australia and Atherton said he was determined that his team perform well in the matches before the first test in Brisbane on Nov. 25.


"It's important we play well in these early state games as it not only builds confidence but also helps to remove the disdain for English cricket in Australia.


"It is important we show in these games that English cricket is full of talent," Atherton added. "That way we can erase those beliefs."


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Pakistan wicketkeeper Moin Khan struck a maiden test century and Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne captured six wickets as the two sides vied for control of the final cricket test Wednesday in Lahore, Pakistan.


Moin, 23, hit a fine 115 not out to help series-leaders Pakistan to a healthy first innings total of 373. At the close of the second day, Australia was strongly placed on 107 for two.