At Brisbane, January 12. West Indies won by 12 runs. Toss: Australia. Bowling with discipline and verve, and fielding magnificently, Australia contained West Indies to a moderate 215. More than half came from a third-wicket partnership of 110 between the busy Richardson and Lara, who batted delightfully for 85 balls. When the innings began to taper away Best responded with a boisterous 30 in 21 balls.

Initially the West Indian attack held little menace on a pitch much slower than it had been the previous day. A solid start from Marsh and Boon promised a comfortable win until Patterson, the fourth seamer tried, dismissed Marsh and Jones. This triggered a collapse given momentum by three run-outs, effected by deadly throwing from substitute Hamesh Anthony and Hooper. At 164 for eight, Australia looked hopelessly outplayed. But a blustery 33 by Taylor took the fight to the last two overs, from which 16 runs were needed.

Man of the Match: B. C. Lara. Attendance: 19,273.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd