The Prime Minister's XI has assumed an early edge over the ATSIC Chairman's XI in today's match between the teams in Canberra. After being invited to bat first, the Chairman's XI struggled to a score of 9/144 from its 40 overs.

In cool conditions, the Prime Minister's XI made an excellent start, winning the toss and then bowling with great accuracy on a Manuka Oval pitch that posed consistent problems for the batsmen.

Opening pair Paul Rofe (0/7 from eight overs) and Mike Smith (1/11 off six) each bowled with immaculate line and length before further problems were presented by young spinners Nathan Hauritz (3/19 from five overs) and Xavier Doherty (2/28 off eight).

A fine unbeaten half-century from middle order batsman Matthew Bradley (74*), and another useful contribution from wicketkeeper-batsman Jacob Sarra (19) at number nine, ultimately helped to revive the innings from potential horror at 7/58.

The Chairman's XI total was also given a boost when the final over of the innings - bowled by captain Martin Love (0/17 from one over) - was slammed for 17 runs.

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