Low key practice match under tight security

POTCHEFSTROOM, South Africa, Feb 4 AAP - It was lower than low-key.

In front of about 100 quiet spectators, Australia started its World Cup journey today with a practice match against the North West Dragons, a provincial side with limited firepower.

The captains didn't even toss, Ricky Ponting's side allowed to bat first upon request. Both teams named 14 players. Any number permitted to bat or bowl.

Jimmy Maher opened with Adam Gilchrist but lasted only 13 balls, driving on the rise to be caught at point for five. Gilchrist and Ponting then settled nicely into their work, hitting crisp boundaries and occasionally lofting over the in-field.

The pitch was slow and so was the mood. A large 500-seat temporary grandstand erected on the hill was empty despite the weather being warm and perfect.

Gilchrist purred to 27 from 37 balls but bunted a catch to short mid-wicket, then Ponting fell cutting for 21 from 34 balls. Australia was 3-60 and appeared in some danger of repeating South Africa's warm-up loss. That danger was quickly averted.

Damien Martyn hit the ball sweetly from the start while Darren Lehmann, who must miss Australia's opening World Cup match because of suspension, gave himself time to get his eye in. He blossomed when left-arm offspinner Ronald Siwane was introduced to the attack, caressing four fours in an over, taking Australia to 0-100 off 126 balls.

Australia was 3-116 after 25 overs, the halfway point of the innings, Lehmann 28 off 38 balls and Martyn 26 off 30.