Western Australia thrash Mumbai

Australia batsman Justin Langer, who returned home after the just-concluded Test series against India, slammed an unbeaten century to guide Western Australia to a seven-wicket victory over Ranji champions Mumbai in the Champions Cup match, in Perth, on Friday.

The newly-appointed Western Australia skipper hit an unbeaten 119, which had nine fours and a six, from 149 balls, to power his side home.

Chasing 231, which the tourists posted for the loss of eight wickets in their quota of 50 overs, Western Australia coasted to 234 for three wickets from 46.5 overs.

Mumbai won the toss in the day-night match and batted first on the second day of the four-nation contest, which also involves South African side KwaZulu Natal and New Zealand's Central Districts.

The left-handed Langer opened the State side's innings and was seldom in trouble during his three hours at the crease. He received useful support from Michael Hussey (32 not out from 33 balls), Simon Katich (30 from 57) and former Zimbabwe Test star Murray Goodwin (30 from 40).

Mumbai's innings began promisingly as openers Robin Morris and Wasim Jaffer posted 98 from the first 24 overs. But the middle and lower order failed to capitalise on the good work of Jaffer (82 from 108 balls, with 10 boundaries) and Morris (a sheet anchor 32 from 73 balls).

Number six Sairaj Bahutule clubbed 32 not out from as many balls, with three boundaries, but Vinayak Mane (22 from 40) and Test all-rounder Samir Dighe (26 from 22) were unable to push on after fine starts.

The only successful bowler was medium-pacer Kade Harvey, who snapped up 3-40 from nine overs.

Agencies

Mail Cricket Editor