Australia crush England in Tri-Series final in run-up to 2015 ICC World Cup

Australia have defeated England in the Carlton Mid One-Day International Tri-Series final at the Western Australia Cricket Association Ground, Perth on Sunday, 1 February.

The Three Lions were bowled out for 166 runs as the host nation registered a comfortable 112-run victory to win the Tri-Series, ahead of their 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup campaign to begin later this month.

The English side made it to the finals after defeating reigning World Champions India in a crucial game on Friday. Eoin Morgan won the toss and elected to field first in the final match on Sunday and the visitors decision to bowl paid off immediately.

England managed to pick quick wickets as Australia lost their opening batsman Aaron Finch on a duck and David Warner soon followed after scoring just 12 runs.

The duo were followed by skipper George Bailey and Steven Smith as Australia lost their first four wickets for 60 runs. However, Glen Maxwell (95) and Mitchell Marsh (60) steadied the hosts' innings and were well supported by James Faulkner down the order.

The hard hitting batsman's unbeaten 50 off 24 deliveries, included four boundaries and four maximums, helped Australia reach a total of 278 runs.

In reply, England collapsed as none of their batsmen were able to get going, apart from Ravi Bopara who was the highest run scorer for the side. He managed 33 runs, seven more than opening batsman Moeen Ali.

Maxwell, who was impressive with the bat was crucial with the ball as well after he picked up four wickets in nine overs. Mitchell Johnson dismantled the top order, while Josh Hazlewood took two wickets, including that of Steven Finn.

Maxwell was named the Man of the Match for his all-round performance. Meanwhile, Starc was named Man of the Series for his impressive display with the bowl throughout the series.

When asked about his form, Starc said, "Have been working hard with Craig McDermott to improve every day. We bowled well as a unit through the series. Important to use the new ball and swing, I am not going to drop my pace trying to get it to swing."

With England's failure to chase in the 50-over version of the game, it could be a matter of worry for the Three Lions with the World Cup starting in less than a fortnight's time. The biggest event in world cricket is being hosted by Australia and New Zealand.