Smith, Amla Star in South African Win Over Aussies

Bangalore: Openers Graeme Smith and Hashim Amla struck half-centuries on Tuesday to guide South Africa to a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over Australia in a World Cup warmup match at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Captain Smith smashed 65 and Amla made 60 as South Africa raced to its target of 218 in 44.2 overs, condemning three-time defending champion Australia to a second successive practice defeat before the World Cup.

Both Smith and Amla retired in a bid to give others batting practice.

Australia, which lost to India two days previously, was all out for 217 as pace bowler Dale Steyn and left-arm spinner Robin Peterson bagged three wickets apiece.

For Australia, Michael Clarke top-scored with 73 and captain Ricky Ponting made 55.

Brief scores
Australia 217 (Clarke 73, Ponting 55, Steyn 3-21, Peterson 3-45)
South Africa 218 for 3 (Smith 65*, Amla 60)
Result South Africa won by seven wickets