Australia takes 3-0 lead in ODI series against England

SYDNEY - Australia took a three nil lead in the seven-match one-day series against England, with a four wicket victory in the third one-day international that was played at the Sydney Cricket Ground here on Sunday.

Chasing down an England score of 214 (scored off 48 overs), Australia scored 215 for the loss of six wickets. The Australian heroes of the day were wicketkeeper Brad Haddin with 54 off 59 balls (seven boundaries and a six) and middle-order batsman David Hussey, who scored 68 off 89 balls (six boundaries and a six). The other major contributors were Steve Smith (26) and John Hastings (18).

For England, the chief wicket takers were Chris Tremlett and Paul Collingwood with two wickets each.

Collingwood removed Cameron White and Brad Haddin in his first two overs to leave Australia struggling at 114 for five. Tremlett removed Shane Watson and Steve Smith.

Ajmal Shahzad claimed the wicket of Hobart centurion Shaun Marsh.

Australian captain Michael Clarke fell for 9 when he chipped Chris Woakes’ third ball in ODI cricket to midwicket, where Michael Yardy juggled the catch thrice before firmly gripping it.

Earlier, England scored 214. Skipper Andrew Strauss fell to a horrid run out and the middle order slid against Australia’s motley collection of spinners.

One drop Jonathan Trott top scored for the visitors with an unbeaten 84.

Eoin Morgan scored 30

For the Australians, comeback man Brett Lee snared three wickets for 27, while left-arm spinner Xavier Doherty claimed two wickets for 37.

Lee was declared the Player of The Match, which gave him an award of 1000 Australian dollars. (ANI)