Cricket Australia XI vs New Zealand practice match abandoned

Sydney, October 30 - The three-day practice match between Cricket Australia (CA) XI and New Zealand at the Blacktown International Sportspark was abandoned after agreement between the two teams here on Friday.

"The decision has been agreed between the two teams to abandon the match due to the wicket's deteriorating surface becoming unfit for first-class cricket. Preparation of the wicket was compromised by poor weather conditions in Sydney early this week," CA head of cricket operations Sean Cary said.

"In response, we're working with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) to provide alternative preparation for the team ahead of next week's first Test."

CA XI ended Day 1's play at 376 for no loss on Thursday and lost their first wicket -- Ryan Carters (209) -- with the score reading 503 on Friday. Following the dismissal, the umpires decided to abandon the match with Aaron Finch batting on 288.

The first of the three Tests between Australia and New Zealand will start on November 5 in Brisbane.

(IANS)