West complete formalities

The final day8217;s play was a mere formality for the West, but it was introspection time for South. Clearly, the vast experience of West8217;s bowlers carried them home as they won by seven wickets here on Sunday.

Jaffer once again impressed with the bat scoring a fine 58 of 78 balls, which included two consecutive sixes off Pragyan Ojha. As South coach Sharad Padnekar put it, 8216;8216;Definitely, we missed Kumble. It would be unfair to say that there are no quality spinners in the side, they tried their level best, but we should not forget that Wasim Jaffer scored a brilliant century. However, our batting was a disappointment.8217;8217;

8216;8216;We have been informed that Kumble will be playing the next match against Central Zone in Surat,8217;8217; added Padnekar. With Balaji still going strong for South, Kumble8217;s arrival will boost South in Surat form October 27-30.

Match referee Sambharan Banerjee was severe on both the teams for slow over rates and docked 10 per cent of playing members8217; match fees, while both captains have been penalised 20 percent. Both West and South fell three overs short.

West Zone is slated to play Central Zone at Aurangabad from November 4-7.

Brief scores: South Zone: 219 and 211 lost to West Zone: 327 and 104-3 W Jaffer 58 n.o, L Balaji 3-30.