India, Feb 21, (PRINTWORDS NEWS) Australians have kickstarted their 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup campaign on a high note, after posting a reasonable total of 262 for six and then crippling the Zimbabwean innings by taking wickets in quick succession. Zimbabwe also playing their first match looked positive in the first inning with their bowling department carrying out a well executed plan to restrict the Australians withing the 300-run mark.

Batting first, the Australian innings never took off to a flier. Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden’s blitzkrieg pair were seemingly missing. Although opener Shane Watson scored a match anchoring 79 off 92 balls, it was Michael Clarke’s 58 runs off 55 deliveries helped the Aussies to put up a competitive total. The Zimbabweans went off to a shaky start in the second innings, losing quick wickets in succession. Coventry looked good as he hit a flat six off Brett Lee, but was soon dismissed by the latter, succumbing to a short pitched delivery. Brendon Taylor, one of the most experienced batsman in the Zimbabwe side was bowled by the Aussie quickie, Shaun Tait. Tatenda Taibu fell to Mitchell Johnson, after edging the ball to the slip.

Mitchell Johnson has claimed two wickets, with Brett Lee and Shaun Tait claiming one each. Earlier, the Australians found it difficult to face Zimbabwean spinner AG Cremer, who refrained the Kangaroos from playing big shots. CB Mpofu was the most successful bowler claiming two wickets for 58 runs.

With Chigumbura and Williams still on the crease and four wickets down, Zimbabwe need to anchor their innings to upset the Australians. The Australians are on the other hand are lurking around to grab more wickets to ensure their victory.

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