Thrilling Tie in Cairns

The second gripping match in the space of couple of days, has seen Australia A and Pakistan A fight out a tie, in their 50 over match in Cairns.

Australia A won the toss and elected to bat first, but some inspired bowling from Mohammad Khalil reduced them to 36-3 after 13 overs. The experiment of opening with Shane Watson and Brad Haddin proved an abject failure with both players only managing single figure scores.

When Mohammad Khalil then clamed Travis Birt for 10 the Aussies were in real trouble. Australia recovered thanks to Mark Cosgrove, who continued his fine form striking 81 from 122 balls. He was ably supported by Shaun Marsh who scored 82 from just 87 balls.

Although these two put on 145 for the fourth wicket, the only other played to contribute was Phil Jaques who finished 28 not out from just 24 deliveries. Australia A finished on a respectable 233-8 from their 50 overs.

Pakistan A started well, needing less than five an over, before losing their first wicket when Rafatullah Mohmand was clean bowled by James Hopes for 29.

Although opener Mohammad Hafeez was playing a fine innings, no one else seemed capable of staying with him, and just when Pakistan A seemed in control the Australian attack found a way of making a breakthrough.

When Mohammad Hafeez fell for a fine 96 (184-4), Pakistan A still looked certain winners. However, Mitchell Johnson returned to claim three wickets and the crucial last-ball run out to secure a fortunate tie for the Australians.

Australia A 233-8
Mark Cosgrove 81, Shaun Marsh 82
Mohammad Khalil 3-22, Abdur Rehman 2-64

Match Tied

Pakistan A 233
Mohammad Hafeez 96, Hasan Raza 39
Mitchell Johnson 3-46, James Hopes 2-27

Cricket Web Man of The Match: Mitchell Johnson