Starc brings Australia win despite Sharma\\\'s ton

MELBOURNE, Jan 18 (AFP): Paceman Mitchell Starc took 6-43 to help Australia to a four-wicket victory over India Sunday, their second in succession in the one-day international tri-series, despite a brilliant Rohit Sharma century.

Sharma's 138 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground enabled India to post a competitive total of 267 for eight after winning the toss and electing to bat.

However, on a placid pitch it always appeared slightly less than required and Australian opener Aaron Finch countered Sharma's century with a match-winning knock of his own.

Finch made 96 as Australia rattled up 269 for six, winning with six balls to spare.

He received great support from the in-form Steve Smith (47). The pair put on 101 for the third wicket as the home side appeared to be coasting to victory.

However, Finch fell when a century beckoned, caught behind by Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni from the bowling of Umesh Yadav, as the tourists made an unlikely late bid to snatch victory.

Australia 6 for 269 (Finch 96) beat India 8 for 267 (Rohit 138, Raina 51, Starc 6-43) by 4 wickets.