Sydney ODI: Warner dazzles as Aussies clinch series victory against Pak

Sydney [Australia], Jan.22 (ANI): Opener David Warner struck a scorching century before bowlers came to the fore as Australia clinched a comfortable 86-run win over Pakistan in the fourth ODI to clinch the five-match series with one game to spare here at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Sunday. Opting to bat first, openers Usman Khawaja (30) and Warner (130) provided their side with a solid start by adding 92 runs for the opening wicket. Warner, who struck 11 boundaries and two sixes in his 155-ball knock, then joined forces with skipper Steve Smith and shared a huge 120-run stand for the second wicket. It was Warner's fifth ODI century in 13 innings he played this season. With this, he also equaled Matthew Hayden's record for most hundreds by an Australia batsman in any season. Australia eventually posted a score of 353-6 in their stipulated 50 overs after Travis Head (51 off 36 balls) and Glenn Maxwell (78 off 40) also contributed sparkling centuries. In reply, Pakistan were bundled out for 267 runs despite some brilliant efforts by Sharjeel Khan. Mohammad Hafeez (40) and Shoaib Malik (47) were other notable contributors for the visitors. As far as Australian bowlers are concerned, Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa scalped three wickets each while Head added two wickets to his account. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins also chipped in with a wicket each. The two sides will now play an inconsequential fifth and final ODI at Adelaide Oval in January 26.(ANI)