Country XI stifle Zimbabwe preparations

BOWRAL, NSW - An Australian Country XI beat Zimbabwe by 51 runs in a one-day cricket match at Bradman Oval today.

Chasing the Country XI's modest total of 197, Zimbabwe was bundled out for 146 in only 39.1 overs.

It was a less than ideal preparation for the tourists for their tri-series match against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.

The Country XI was cruising at 2-129 but Zimbabwean allrounder Dirk Viljeon took 4-15, including 4-0 from his last four immaculate overs, to vindicate captain Heath Streak's decision to bowl first on a seaming wicket.

The match was evenly poised midway through the run chase but New South Welshman Andrew Starr picked up 5-37 as Zimbabawe lost 5-12 in a hurry.

Only a slogging last wicket stand of 35 runs from Streak (15no) and Gus Mackay (21) added respectability to the score.

Zimbabawe's premier batsman Andy Flower made only 13 before he shuffled across his crease and was trapped LBW by Starr.

Guy Whittall (37) and Grant Flower (23) made starts but the rest of the Zimbabwean top order failed.

Starr, West Australian left armer Doug Ellis (1-23) and Newcastle quick Mark Cameron (2-29) were the pick of the Country XI bowlers.