The defending champions' bowlers came back strongly in the middle overs to restrict England to a modest 247 all out after it seemed that their archrivals would post a total close to around 300.

Pacer Shaun Tait did most of the damage, claiming 3 for 41 in his 10 overs. For his effort he was named man of the match.

Kevin Pietersen scored a century and Ian Bell (77) added 140 for the third wicket following another poor start for England, who lost captain Michael Vaughan (5) and Andrew Strauss (7) when they both dragged deliveries from Shaun Tait on to their stumps.

Paul Collingwood followed caught behind for two in Tait's next over and Andew Flintoff showed his vulnerability to spin when he was stumped for four off Brad Hogg.

England, coasting at 164 for two in the 30th over, lost three wickets for 15 runs from six overs and they never recovered their momentum.

Glenn McGrath was outclassed in his opening spell but made a strong return to claim 3-62, while Nathan Bracken (3-33) was irresistible in the death.

Captain Ricky Ponting top scored with 86 as Australia cruised home, finishing on 248 for 3 in 47.2 overs.

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