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by Dinesh Weerawansa

Australia continued their amazing form to bash the Bangladeshis by nine wickets in their second game and set up a semi-final clash with the Sri Lankans. This game was played at the SSC ground on Friday, September 19.

Batting first Bangladesh found the varied Australian attack difficult to cope with. On a wicket that was easy for batting, the Bangladeshis failed as they lacked the batting skills to perform.

Only A. Kapali with 45 stood out. He received support from Imran 27 and Mashud 22. These three batsmen fought it out against an attack that did not allow them any respite.

The Bangla batsmen succumbed to 129 all out in 45.2 overs.This time it was not McGrath who was the tormentor. While he did not go flat out, Gillespie, Lee and Watson were among the wickets. Gillespie had 3 for 20, Lee 2 for 23 and Watson 2 for 7.

The Bangladeshis don't seem to have made any headway in their game. If the form they have shown in this tournament is an indication, then they will just be making up the numbers in the next World Cup in South Africa.

When the Aussies batted they were off to their usual rollicking start, given by Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist.

Both batsmen are in topping form. Their stroke play is fantastic to watch. They middle the ball well and with excellent timing send the ball scorching to the fence,

Both are hard hitters and if they continue this same form in the semi-final against the Sri Lankans, then the Aussies are certain to run up a match winning score.

Gilchrist 54 with nine fours in 49 balls and Hayden smashed an unbeaten 67 with one six and ten fours in 69 balls.

The Aussies lost their only wicket at 113 and skipper Ponting then joined Hayden to take the Aussies to victory without further loss.

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