Cricket: Pattinson - bring on India

Already James Pattinson is thinking about the Boxing Day test against India.

Pattinson was not trying to be arrogant as he cast his mind forward to the four-test series opener at the MCG. But no one could begrudge the Victorian quick for assuming he might have a couple of extra days to prepare for the next series after his heroics on Friday.

Pattinson became the first Australian quick since Rodney Hogg in 1978 to grab a five-wicket haul in each of his first two tests as the Black Caps were bundled out for 150 in the first innings of the second transtasman clash.

Exploiting a green deck, Pattinson took five for 51 and was on a hat-trick when the New Zealand second innings started.

Pattinson is focused on finishing the job on New Zealand at Bellerive - but he is already daring to dream of running out against India at the MCG following his most recent heroics.

Last season he was battling back stress fracture issues that limited him to just two first-class games. One summer later the Victorian quick is expected to run out against India at his beloved MCG as Australia's latest pace sensation.

"That's the pinnacle, the Boxing Day Test," Pattinson said. "When I was young, I would go every year.

"So to be out there playing is going to be a dream come true - if I get the chance. And against India - there is no better challenge than their batsmen."

Not that Pattinson had to be told there was still a job to do at Bellerive against New Zealand.

Especially on a green deck dubbed "The Incredible Hulk".

"On any wicket (150) is under par. I don't think it is enough but if they bowl really well you don't know what can happen," Pattinson said.

Nor did they. Australia were dismissed for 136 - but this could still be a test that finishes early.

- AAP