England off to flying start

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Utilising a blend of Twenty20 domestic specialists and the nucleus of their one-day international side, England proved too strong for Zimbabwe just 24 hours after their shock victory over Australia.

Having set a challenging total of 188 for nine - which included Kevin Pietersen's first half century of his Twenty20 international career - Zimbabwe slumped to 138 for seven in reply despite a 74-run opening stand in only eight overs.

If Pietersen provided the international sparkle with his innings of 79 off 37 balls, including seven fours and four sixes, it was two less celebrated members of England's line-up who smothered Zimbabwe's positive start.

Hampshire all-rounder Dimitri Mascarenhas, who has just established himself in England's one-day international side this summer and only included in this squad because of an injury to Ryan Sidebottom, continued his progress by grabbing three for 18.

But the most remarkable performance of the day was delivered by leg-spinner Chris Schofield, who claimed two for 15 on his England return just two years after being forced to make his living as a painter and decorator after being released by Lancashire.

Their efforts ensured an impressive all-round display for England in their opening match of the tournament and providing they do not lose heavily to Australia on Friday, should ensure their progress into the second stage of the competition.