An unbeaten half century by Mitchell Starc (52 off 37 balls) lifted Australia to 222 for 9 in their 50 overs after batting first in the 4th one-day international against Sri Lanka at the SCG on Sunday.

Starc led a magnificent rearguard action hitting seven boundaries including three in the last over from Thisara Perera to end the innings with a flourish.

Australia were in danger of being bowled out inside 50 overs for the third time in a row.

But Starc took charge after Australia collapsed to 145 for 7 in the 39th overs to hold the innings together with some brilliant strokeplay.

David Warner top scored with 60 off 73 balls with six boundaries while Mathew Wade chipped in with 31.

But Australia were put on the back foot by the twin dismissals of Warner and Henriques for dubious LBW decisions.

Nuwan Kulasekera was once again the tormentor for Australia claiming 3 for 30 while Lasith Malinga (2 for 33) and left arm spinner Rangana Herath (2 for 37) also impressed.

Thisara Perera went for 64 in his 10 overs although picking up two wickets.(emirates247)