There was bad news for Essex skipper Ronnie Irani today as he captained England to defeat against Australia's Bradman XI.

Australian captain Mark Waugh scored 108 to lead the Bradman XI past England's total of 279 for eight with three overs to spare.

England, captained by Irani, were helped by a century from Owais Shah and 53 from Adam Hollioake.

Opening the innings, Shah hit 127, with nine fours and two sixes.

Irani joined Shah in a second wicket partnership of 67 but the skipper's dismissal in the 29th over brought two more quick wickets.

England still blasted 91 runs off the final 10 overs, Shah and Hollioake adding 105 off 83 deliveries.

Matthew Hoggard had immediate success, bowling Michael Slater for a duck and then Brad Haddin for 28.

Simon Katich made 36 off 47 balls before being bowled by Ian Blackwell.

Then Mark Waugh and Jamie Cox put on the decisive century stand from 93 balls, the Australian team finishing on 285-4.

On Saturday, England face Australia in Hobart in the next match in the VB Series.

Published Wednesday, January 8, 2003