Australia crash to Chawla spin in warm-up match

Piyush Chawla spun India to a remarkable 38-run win over defending champions Australia in a high-profile World Cup warm-up match on Sunday.

India was out of the game during the first 72 overs. But the spinners led by Piyush Chawla wrecked the Australian innings. Piyush Chawla, who is playing his first ODI tournament at home, justified his controversial selection with a four-wicket haul. 

Earlier, India won the toss and elected to bat first. They could post just 214 in 44.3 overs. Sehwag was the top scorer with 54, while Yusuf Pathan made 32. Virat Kohli scored 21, followed by R Ashwin (25*) and Nehra (19). 

For Australia, Brett Lee took three wickets, while Hastings and David Hussey took two wickets each. 

Chasing a victory target of 215, Australia were cruising towards an easy victory when they were 118/1 in 21.4 overs. Piyush Chawla changed the game with a four-wicket haul. He destroyed the Australian batting order completely. 

Harbhajan Singh did further damage by removing the Kangaroos very quick. Australia bowled out for 176 in 37.5 overs. Ricky Ponting was the top scorer with 57, while Tim Paine made 37. Shane Watson scored 33. 

For India, Chawla took four wickets, while Harbhajan Singh took three wickets. India will take on New Zealand in another warm-up game.