Steve Waugh may miss playing cricket in his retirement - but not days like Friday.

The New South Wales captain had a forgettable day with two dropped catches as century-maker Chris Rogers (142no) lifted Western Australia to opening day honours at the WACA Ground.

Rogers' highest Pura Cup score of the summer ensured Waugh's decision to send WA into bat backfired with the Warriors 3-278 at stumps, Marcus North also unbeaten on seven.

The son of former New South Wales batsman John Rogers feasted on the Blues' bowling on home soil for the second time in two seasons after recording his highest first class score of 194 in the corresponding fixture last summer.

He extended his impressive record in the four-day competition this season to 610 runs at 76.25 after making 745 runs at 46.56 in 2002-03.

The polished left-hander was the chief tormentor for the Blues who beat the bat time after time for scant reward.

NSW entered the match desperately needing points against the bottom-placed Warriors to revive their flagging Pura Cup defence.

It started well with Nathan Bracken (1-57) having Test opener Justin Langer (12) hit a low catch to Dominic Thornely with the score at 16.

The Blues' pace attack produced plenty of movement all day but Waugh grassed a regulation chance at first slip with Hussey on nine off Stuart Clark's (1-50) bowling.

It proved costly for the departing great and his side as the dogged Hussey and Rogers put on 179 for the second wicket.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP