Email Us Forum Mail Article Print Article

Australia Overcome Zimbabwe

Monday, October 20 2003

The outcome was somewhat refreshing, yet always predictable as Australia wrapped up the two test series against Zimbabwe 2-0 despite a fighting display shown by the Zimbabwean's.

After fighting hard for the last three days, Zimbabwe continued where they left off against a slightly weaker Australian bowling attack.

Resuming at a competitive 151/4, Craig Wishart was the first man to be dismissed for a valuable contribution of 45 runs, as he was stumped off the improved bowling of Simon Katich.

Katich, who's batting and bowling expolits for New South Wales earned him the right to play in this test match, didn't dissapoint his supporters and pleased his critics with valuable contributions with both bat and ball.

Gutsy wicket keeper Tatenda Taibu played a patient innings while his captain, Heath Streak was run out by Simon Katich for a decent 25. Ewing fell next for 0, and Taibu so keen to stay at the crease was running out of partners.

Soon after with the score at 230, Tatenda Taibu (35 off 150 balls) gave his wicket away to a good delivery by Katich.
Meanwhile Blignaut was at his aggressive best, as his quickfire innings of 44 guided Zimbabwe to a competitive total of 266 all out, requiring Australia to chase a target of 172.

Australia always looked like reaching their target, although they suffered a slight blemish with opener, Justin Langer being caught behind off the bowling of Heath Streak for just a paltry 8 runs. From there on, it was Matthew Hayden and Ricky Ponting who gave Zimbabwe their last rites.

The two played aggressively, and Matthew Hayden reached another test century off an astounding 84 deliveries with a huge six over mid wicket. Ricky Ponting (53*) also played some beautiful drives and elegant cuts to get to his score.

In the end, it was Ponting who hit the winning runs for Australia as the World Champions walked to a comfortable 2-0 series win against the minnows, Zimbabwe.


Brief Score Summary:

Zimbawbe (2nd Innings): 266 All Out (Vermeulen 48, Gripper 47, Katich 6/65, Williams 2/56)

Australia Chasing a Target of 172

Australia (2nd Innings): 172/1 (Hayden 101*, Ponting 53*, Streak 1/46)

Australia Won by 9 Wickets

Cricket Web Player of the Match: RT Ponting (AUS)
Cricket Web Player of the Series: ML Hayden (AUS)

Posted by Sangrah