EPP take victory

Chris Schofield

The England Performance Programme XI claimed victory in the three-day match against an MRF XI in Chennai after scoring more first-innings runs.

The tourists declared on their first-day score of 358 for four following the complete abandonment of the second day’s play on Monday.

The home side were shot out for 121 by penetrative bowling from the England side with James Tredwell the pick of the bowlers with 3-24, while Chris Tremlett and youngster Steve Finn collected a brace of wickets each.

England opted for some batting practise and declared on 88 for two from 26 overs mainly due to Chris Schofield, promoted up the order to number four, who clubbed 43 from 44 deliveries - including two sixes.

When the home side batted for the second time they required an improbable 326 from 26 overs - and reached 89 for two at the close with Schofield claiming both wickets.