ANDRE BOTHA’S half-century ensured a four-wicket win for Ireland against Zimbabwe in their World Cup warm-up game at Nagpur.

Elton Chigumbura was the thorn in Ireland’s side as he struck an unbeaten century to lead Zimbabwe to 244 for eight in their World Cup warm-up game in Nagpur.

Martin Guptill’s century helped New Zealand post a mammoth 311 for the loss of six wickets against Ireland in the first of two warm-up games for both sides prior to the World Cup, which starts on February 19.

Ireland captain William Porterfield is confident his side can belie their underdog status and progress from the group stages of the World Cup.

Cricket Ireland today announced their preliminary squad for the 2011 World Cup which is being held in Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka from February 19 to April 2.

ANDREW STRAUSS is backing England’s inexperienced batting line-up to overcome their nerves and deliver in the forthcoming Ashes series.

PAKISTAN paid a high price for a series of dropped catches as unbeaten hundreds from Alastair Cook and Paul Collingwood put England in a strong position on the first day of the first Test at Lord’s yesterday.

KEVIN PIETERSEN was caught short once again as England struggled to exert their authority on a stop-start opening day of the second Test.