West Indies batting collapses again

The West Indies continued to struggle with their batting in the run-up to next week's first Test with Australia, collapsing to 167 all out against Victoria on Friday.

West Indies, who were skittled for just 132 in last week's six-wicket loss to Western Australia, once again failed to make a big enough total as they were bundled out cheaply in their first innings.

Victoria in reply were two without loss at stumps on the first day of their four-day match.

Victoria pace bowler Mathew Inness ripped through the West Indies batting to finish with a career-best first-class haul of six for 26. Veteran all-rounder Colin Miller claimed two for 68, including the prized wicket of Brian Lara.

Lara had scored centuries in each his two previous innings on tour but had only 19 to his name when he edged an outswinger from Miller to wicket-keeper Darren Berry, who finished with four catches for the innings.

With Lara gone, West Indies crashed to 92 for six before spinner Mahendra Nagamootoo helped prop up the innings with an adventurous 48.

Australian Test bowler Damien Fleming made an impressive return to the game after breaking his finger a month ago. Fleming failed to take a wicket but bowled well and conceded just 38 runs in his 20 overs.

Mail Cricket Editor