Australia post 249 against England in 5th ODI Sports News

Australia post 249 against England in 5th ODI
BRISBANE: Australia captain Michael Clarke ended a poor run of scores with a half century while the tail provided a late flurry to help their side post 249 in their fifth one-day international against England at the Gabba on Sunday.

Clarke's team, who hold a 3-1 lead in the seven-match series, had been looking in trouble when they were struggling at 190 for six on a good wicket with several of the top-order
making starts.

England captain Andrew Strauss had rotated his bowlers skilfully with Chris Woakes, who finished with 6-45, and Paul Collingwood proving to be partnership breakers which stymied Australia's run rate.

Shane Watson and Brad Haddin had made an enterprising start racing to 48 inside the first 10 overs before Watson was caught at point by Collingwood off a short delivery from Woakes for 16.

Shaun Marsh followed for exactly the same score, as did Cameron White, while Haddin who had spent most of his innings shuffling around his crease, was bowled by Steve Finn for 37 to leave Australia struggling at 113-4 in the 23rd over.

Clarke, who had been under pressure after a poor Australian summer with the bat, then combined for a 65-run partnership with David Hussey (35) and posted his 44th one-day half century.

However, just as he was needed to anchor Australia's final 10 overs, he needlessly charged Woakes in the 41st over and top edged a simple catch to Strauss to be dismissed for 54.

Steve Smith (24 not out) was supported by Mitchell Johnson (16) and John Hastings (13) for a late cameo to ensure the hosts at least threatened to post a par target.

The match was also used to help raise money to alleviate the effects of flooding that has swamped the eastern seaboard of Australia, killing 35 people, crippling coal mines, ruining crops, damaging roads and railways and destroying homes.