Beating Australia in cricket, even outside the Ashes, always sends a frisson of excitement down England's collective spine. This being the case, don't be surprised if felicitation ceremonies are organised for Adam Hollioake's men once they wend their way back to their homeland. For not only have they thrashed Australia, they have also managed to dump their traditional rivals out of the 2002 Hong Kong Sixes tournament.

Australia, who needed to win the match to stay alive, elected to bat after winning the toss. Openers Dene Hills and the ever-colourful Colin Miller (13) put on 18 runs for the first wicket before Miller fell.

With Hills (28 off 16 balls) stifled to an extent, it, then, fell to wicket-keeper Southam to wield the long handle. Clouting four sixes and one four on his way an unbeaten 30 off just 12 balls, he ensured that Australia posted a fighting 83 for one in their five overs.

But unfortunately for Craig McDermott's men, it was to prove far from enough on the day. England openers Matthew Maynard and Adam Hollioake set a scorching pace before both were forced to retire.

Maynard, who is also captaining the side, made 32 off 11 balls with three fours and three sixes while Hollioake contributed 33 off nine balls with five fours and two sixes. The efforts of the duo ensured that England sneaked home winners by five wickets with just one ball to spare.

Maynard's men now gear up for the all-important clash against Hong Kong on Sunday. The winners of the tie will join Pakistan, India and South Africa in the championship round.

© CricInfo