Perth, Oct 13: Australia defeated Zimbabwe by a massive innings and 175 runs today on the fifth and final day of the first cricket Test at the Waca ground. Zimbabwe's brave second innings resistance was finally broken after another hour and a half, leaving the team all out for 321 -- their biggest second innings total in Test ranks.
They were skittled for 239 in their first innings in reply to Australia's mammoth 735 for six wickets declared.
Play started on time today after heavy rain had washed out play late yesterday, but further rain in the morning sent the players off for another 18 minutes.
Tenth-wicket pair of Heath Streak and Ray Price continued to defy the depleted Australian attack until fast bowler Andy Bichel trapped price. Streak made 71 not out and price 36. They forged a tenth-wicket stand of 74 -- the best in tests in Perth.
Streak completed a commendable 50 when he viciously cut a ball from speedster Brett Lee to the backward point boundary.
The milestone Weas posted in 212 minutes, from 159 balls, with five fours. It was Streak's ninth half-century in test ranks. He has yet to complete a century at this level, his best score being 87.
Australia continued to be handicapped by the absence of frontline bowlers Jason Gillespie and Stuart Macgill. Paceman Gillespie has a sore left side, while Macgill has a problem with his right calf.
Both players were forced to leave the ground Saturday, leaving Australia with their most depleted attack in many tests. Ace paceman Glenn McGrath did not start in this test because of a left ankle injury. Bureau Report