So it says much about Clarke's growing maturity as a batsman and fledgling leader that yesterday he was content to push the singles while compiling a century far less flashy but every bit as important as the 169 tallied by Haddin.

The innings of 110 gave Clarke his fourth hundred in Tests this year and delayed redemption after he fell for a fine 98 on day one of the first match of this series in Brisbane.

''I'm definitely more patient,'' Clarke said. ''I've still got that positive, aggressive streak, I love playing cricket that way, but I'm learning you can't play that way all the time and today's a great example.

'''Hadds' walked out to bat and every ball he hit was in the middle of the bat, so for me, my job was just to get a single and get up the other end and let him go for his life, where three years ago I would've been trying to compete with him he hits a four and I've got to hit a four.

''I've probably grown up a little bit, learned along the way about how I play my best cricket and certainly been more patient with my batting in all forms of the game.''

There is no doubt the Clarke of today is a less dynamic and instinctive batsman than he was at the time he was dropped from the Australian team in the extended aftermath of the 2005 Ashes series.

Instead, he is more considered and patient.

His leadership credentials were strengthened by his presence at the time that Haddin finally made the leap from domestic strongman to Test match performer.

After the history the pair have with NSW it was hardly a coincidence.

''Today's very special for me, obviously I'm rapt to get another Test hundred but mainly for Hadds,'' Clarke said.

''I've played a lot of cricket for NSW with him, he was a very good friend of mine and it was a very special day for him.'' AAP