Australia will play fellow co-hosts New Zealand in Sunday's World Cup final in Melbourne after they beat defending champions India by 95 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground today.

Steven Smith's 105 and his second-wicket stand of 182 with opener Aaron Finch was the cornerstone of Australia's imposing 328 for seven, made after skipper Michael Clarke won the toss.

But India — unbeaten in their run to the semi-finals — fought back with paceman Umesh Yadav taking four for 72 before Mitchell Johnson smashed 27 not out off nine balls.

India made a bold start to their stiff chase but lost two quick wickets after opener Shikhar Dhawan holed out for 45.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the India captain, rallied his side with a run-a-ball 65 until he was run out by Glenn Maxwell's direct hit with only one stump to aim at.

India were eventually dismissed for 233.

New Zealand and Australia have already met at this World Cup, with New Zealand winning by just one wicket in a pool-phase thriller at Auckland's Eden Park last month.

Opinion

Editorial

China security ties
Updated 14 Nov, 2024

China security ties

If China's security concerns aren't addressed satisfactorily, it may affect bilateral ties. CT cooperation should be pursued instead of having foreign forces here.
Steep price
14 Nov, 2024

Steep price

THE Hindu Kush-Himalayan region is in big trouble. A new study unveiled at the ongoing COP29 reveals that if high...
A high-cost plan
14 Nov, 2024

A high-cost plan

THE government has approved an expensive plan for FBR in the hope of tackling its deep-seated inefficiencies. The...
United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

Unusual IMF visit shows the lender will closely watch implementation of programme goals to prevent it from derailing.
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

Bara’s brave women have proven that with the right support, societal barriers can be overcome.