Australia beat Zimbabwe by 91 runs

In their first match in the 2011 World Cup, defending champions Australia have defeated Zimbabwe by decisive 91 runs.

Batting first, Australia put up a total of 262/6 in 50 overs. Though, the Zimbabwean spin bowlers bowled well, the Aussie batsmen rose to the occasion riding on half centuries by Shane Watson and Michael Clarke. Watson, who scored 79 with 8 boundaries and a six, was the highest scorer of the match. Clarke (58), Ponting (28) and Haddin (29) were other notable contributors.

Chasing 262, Zimbabwe batsmen faltered mid way to the lethal bowling of Australia’s pace battery. Zimbabwe was bowled out for 171 in 46.2 overs. Graeme Cremer (37) and Sean Williams (28) were the chief scorers. Mitchell Johnson was the pick of the bowler grabbing 4 wickets for just 19 runs. Mitchell was complemented by Shaun Tait and Jason Krejza who took two wickets each. Brett Lee and David Hussey got a piece each.

Shane Watson was awarded the Man of the Match.

Zimbabwe bowled and fielded impressively but while batting, at no stage, looked to threaten the Aussie total. Australia may not have won the match with too big a margin but their sharp fielding and top-class pace bowling has proven that they would be a force to reckon with in the later stages of the tournament. The likes of India, Sri Lanka and South Africa need to watch out!

Source: http://bit.ly/fkzPPZ