Brathwaite, Edwards star in six-wicket victory

Half-centuries from Kirk Edwards and Kraigg Brathwaite gave West Indies A an easy six-wicket win against Zimbabwe in the four-day game at St. George's.

Zimbabwe had made a strong comeback into the match on the third day, but Andy Blignaut's dismissal off the first ball of the final day was the beginning of the end of their resistance. They lost their remaining two wickets for the addition of 29 runs, leaving the hosts a target of 255.

Justin Guillen and Brathwaite kicked off the chase, adding 36 for the opening wicket before Guillen drove straight to cover. Thereafter Brathwaite put his side on course with substantial partnerships for the second and third wickets. Jason Haynes struck a 71-ball 30 in a stand of 69, before offering a catch to midwicket of Graeme Cremer. Travis Dowlin who walked in next, weighed in with a 38-ball 31. . Brathwaite contributed a patient 62 off 166 balls before nicking Chris Mpofu behind, and setting the stage for Edwards to take the side home.

Edwards stepped on the gas, bustling along to 72 off 96 balls, with seven fours and a six. Shane Dowrich was with him at the end, having contributed 33 to a stand that fetched 94.

West Indies A will now clash with Zimbabwe in two Twenty20 matches on Thursday and Saturday.