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Kirsten hundred proves decisive

South Africa (287-5) beat India (249-9) by 38 runs.

South Africa remained unbeaten during their first visit to the Sharjah Cup when they beat India by 38 runs in the final.

Having won the toss, South Africa posted a commanding total of 287 for five in their 50 overs and then restricted India to 249 for nine.

South Africa's winning score was built around an unbeaten 115 by opener Gary Kirsten. While scoring his second century of the tournament, Kirsten held the innings together after Andrew Hudson and Daryll Cullinan were dismissed with only 20 runs on the board.

With Pat Symcox, who was promoted in the batting order and responded with 61, he added 95 runs in 91 balls for the third wicket. Kirsten and Hansie Cronje shared a fourth-wicket stand of 60 before Derek Crookes hit 26 as 52 were added for the fifth wicket.

Brian McMillan chipped in with a breezy 37, including three sixes, and kept Kirsten company until the close.

There were four run-outs in the India innings, which was held together by Sachin Tendulkar, who made 57 from 71 deliveries. >From 204 for four, India slumped to 243 for eight as the target slipped out of reach.

Sharjah Cup.- Final: South Africa 287-5 (50 overs: G Kirsten 115no, P L Symcox 61), India 249-9 (50 overs: S R Tendulkar 57). South Africa won by 38 runs.