KINGSTOWN (St Vincent), March 6: World champions Australia struggled to impose themselves on an enthusiastic but limited Zimbabwe attack and a slow, low pitch in the first of their two World Cup warm-up matches on Tuesday.

All-rounder Shane Watson, opening the innings with reserve wicketkeeper Brad Haddin, struck 81 and Michael Clarke looked in good touch, surviving a catching chance to reach 82 to take Australia to 290 for seven from their 50 overs.

After a slow start, Australia began to come to terms with a pitch which demanded late stroke adjustment to reach 105 for one.

But the middle-order then faltered with captain Ricky Ponting (2), Brad Hodge (17), Mike Hussey (15) and Brad Hogg (5) departing in quick succession.

Haddin (47), who was dropped by Sean Williams for two at point as the fielder stared directly into the sun, flourished briefly, hitting opening bowler Anthony Ireland for three fours off four balls then lofting a straight six.

Watson also profited from a dropped catch by Ireland off Williams before he was caught off the slow left-armer.—Reuters