Australia made easy prey of minnows Netherlands and secured a 229-run victory to continue with their domination in World Cup cricket. Playing at the Warner Park Stadium in St. Kitts and Nevis, the Australian team entertained spectators in this one-sided affair, and in the process, had some valuable match practice before their big encounter against South Africa.

Australia’s mammoth 358 for 5 was a result of some excellent stroke-making from the likes of Brad Hodge (123), Michael Clarke (93 not out) and Adam Gilchrist (57). The perfect impetus came from opener Gilchrist, who made good use of power-plays to make a splendid half-century.

Middle-order batsman Hodge played a superb knock to score his maiden one-day hundred and went on to make 123 runs in just 89 balls. Along with Clarke, he fostered a brilliant partnership of 204 runs that slaughtered the winning chances and morale of the Netherlanders. Both of them thrashed Dutch bowlers all over the park and helped in taking the Aussie total to above 350.

The Netherlands did not fancy any chances of winning this game from the very start of their innings. However, the Dutchmen did display some grit and determination here and there. For instance, their openers put up a brave front by scoring 36 runs in the first six overs. But, they were not ably supported down the order, as wickets kept tumbling down one after the other.

Brad Hogg (4-27) and Glenn McGrath (2-33) ripped through the Dutch batting line-up and send the team packing for 129 runs in about 27 overs. The only batsmen who managed to stand up to Aussie might for some time were Daan van Bunge (33) and Peter Borren (24). Australia and The Netherlands next play South Africa and Scotland respectively.

Brief Score: Australia 358/5 (Hodge 123, Clarke 93*, Gilchrist 57) vs. The Netherlands 129 (Hogg 4-27)
Result: Australia won by 229 runs
Man of the Match: Brad Hodge

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