Super Smith powers Aussies

Steve Smith's incredible summer continued when he produced an unbeaten century to guide Australia to a three-wicket victory over England in a tri-series one-day international in Hobart on Friday.

Promoted to the captaincy with regular skipper George Bailey suspended for a second slow over rate breach in 12 months, Smith's unbeaten 102 enabled Australia to chase down England's imposing total of 303 for eight.

Australia, also missing the rested David Warner and Shane Watson, made 304 for seven to win with just one ball to spare and remain undefeated in the competition, guaranteeing themselves a berth in Sunday's final.

Ian Bell's brilliant 141 set up the England total, which appeared to be enough for much of the game.

England was still in pole position when Brad Haddin strode to the wicket for Australia with the home side at 216 for five.

Another 88 runs were needed from 76 balls, but Haddin's 42 off 29 balls as part of a quickfire 71-run stand turned the game.

Smith, who hit four centuries in Australia's four-Test series against India that finished earlier in the month, faced 95 balls, hitting six fours and one six.

SCORES IN BRIEF

ENGLAND: 303 for 8 in 50 overs (Ali 46, Bell 141, Root 69, Buttler 25; Sandhu 2-49)

AUSTRALIA: 304 for 7 in 49.5 overs (Finch 32, Marsh 45, Smith 102 not out, Maxwell 37, Faulkner 35, Haddin 42; Woakes 2-58, Ali 2-50, Finn 2-65)

Result: Australia won by three wickets.

Player-of-the-match: Steve Smith.