Australian captain Ricky Ponting made comparisons between Corey Collymore and Glenn McGrath after the West Indian quick ripped through his side's middle order on the opening day of the first Test at the Gabba.

Collymore, 27, produced an early contender for the spell of the summer when he dismissed key trio Matthew Hayden, Michael Clarke and Simon Katich in the space of 11 deliveries.

His performance - 4-47 from 18 overs - came close to vindicating the unexpected decision by Windies skipper Shivnarine Chanderpaul to send the hosts in to bat.

Chanderpaul looked to have made a dramatic error in judgment with Australia seemingly cruising at lunch before the tourists worked their way back into the match behind Collymore.

Ponting said Collymore made life difficult for the Australians who finished the day at 7-340 with Shane Warne and Brett Lee the unbeaten batsmen.

"Collymore bowled very well today," Ponting said.

"I think the conditions up here suit the way he bowls, line and length bowling, where he's attacking the off stump.

"It's a little bit like Glenn I guess but not quite as tall. He made it awkward for us."

Collymore, who overcame a spate of career-threatening back injuries earlier in his career, said more support from his fellow quicks could have seen the Windies finish day one well on top.

"I think we needed more support today," he said.

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