Baugh ballistics enliven an inevitable draw

West Indians 618 (Chanderpaul 245, Jacobs 149) and 289 for 3 dec (Ganga 101*, Baugh 158*) drew with Free State 264 (Venter 79, Rampaul 5-55) and 97 for 2 (McLaren 53*)
Scorecard

The West Indians' only first-class match before the Test series gets under way at Johannesburg on Friday (Dec 12) ended in the draw that was the only likely outcome once Brian Lara opted for batting practice rather than enforcing the follow-on yesterday - but a rumbustious innings from Carlton Baugh, who slapped 158 not out in less than three hours, enlivened the final day and further dispirited the Free State bowlers.

Resuming at 39 for 2 the West Indians soon lost Ramnaresh Sarwan for 1, but that only brought Baugh to the crease. Perhaps stung by the century his rioval for the wicketkeeping gloves, Ridley Jacobs, completed on the second day, Baugh hit out, collecting five sixes and 18 fours as he skeetered to a career-best innings. In all he faced 154 balls, in 178 minutes, and added an unbeaten 249 for the fourth wicket with Daren Ganga, whose own century - 12 fours and a six - was somewhat overshadowed.

When Lara eventually put an end to the bowlers' torture Free State needed the little matter of 644 to win. They satisfied themselves by pottering to 97 for 2 from the 32 overs possible before the captains shook hands. There was time for Ryan McLaren to complete his maiden first-class half-century before the close.

The West Indians had an enjoyable time in Bloemfontein, with a heartening bowling performance in skittling Free State for 264 to set alongside two dominant batting displays. But as they travel down to Jo'burg they will be aware that South Africa at the Wanderers is likely to be a different kettle of fish indeed.