Anderson helps to set new record partnership

The Lions were beaten by a 51-run margin during the fifth one-day international in Brisbane as the hosts ripped through England’s batting order to preserve their 249 total. James Woakes had helped restrict the Aussies as he became only the second Englishman to take six wickets in a one-day international.

England’s pursuit of a modest tally faltered as they slumped to 22-3. Kevin Pietersen and Ian Bell provided a reprieve but their respective dismissals sparked a collapse to 198 all out as Australia took an unassailable 4-1 lead.

Trailing by more than 100 runs, it was up to England’s final pairing to conjure up a fight back following an insipid display from England’s batsmen. Steve Finn became the third top scorer on his debut with 35 while Anderson struck an unbeaten 20. However, the duo’s resolve was finally broken when Shane Watson clinched victory, and ended their record-breaking stand of 53, by bowling Finn.

England’s more celebrated batsmen will have plenty to consider ahead of this month’s World Cup in the subcontinent, though 28-year-old Anderson can take some heart from his dogged battle in the culmination of England’s fifth one-day defeat.