Australia sealed the 7-match series 4-1 after a comprehensive 51-run win in the fifth ODI at the GABBA in Brisbane. Batting first after winning the toss, Australia overcame a few hurdles to put up 249 before being bowled out in the final over. The top scorer of the innings was Michael Clarke who scored 54 from 74 balls. For England, young fast bowler - Chris Woakes had a magical day taking 6 for 45! Steven Finn although on the expensive side showed tremendous promise by clocking speeds well over 145 kmph!
England in their run chase had a huge slump to 98 for 5 and could never recover from that. Towards the end, the margin of defeat was reduced drastically by the last wicket pair of Anderson (20*) and Steven Finn who was superb in his 35 from just 24 balls with 5 fours and a six. For the record, Kevin Pietersen was the top scorer for the visitors with his 40 from 51 balls before getting out to a slower bouncer from Hastings. For the Aussies, Brett Lee, Johnson, Steven Smith and Hastings bowled tight spells. Woakes got the Man of the Match award.
- BV Swagath
