Ponting leads Australia to victory
Ricky Ponting scored a stunning century as Australia beat India by 18 runs in Sydney in the Commonwealth Bank one day international series. The hosts' skipper has been in poor form, averaging only just over ten for his five innings in the tournament so far, but responded in style as he led his side to 317-7 from their 50 overs.
And despite Gautam Gambhir claiming a century of his own in the reply India fell short of their challenging target as they failed in their attempt to seal their place in the final.
Australia had already qualified for next week's final, while India are still favourites to ensure their spot at the expense of Sri Lanka.
But this game was all about Ponting as he hit 124 from only 133 balls, while he was ably assisted by Andrew Symonds, who hit 59 as the pair put on 102 runs for the fourth wicket.
Matthew Hayden also hit a half-century as India's bowlers toiled, before Adam Gilchrist took five wickets behind the stumps, taking four catches and a stumping as he continues his farewell tour in style.
Gambhir hit an impressive innings of 113 off 119 balls, but he was the only batsman in the top order to offer much resistance.
India's lower order did make a significant contribution though, with Robin Uthappa scoring 51 from 43 deliveries, although Brett Lee's five wickets for 58 runs put paid to their chances as they were bowled out for 299, just 18 runs short of their total.
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