Cricket: India topple Australian juggernaut

MELBOURNE - Vangipurappu Laxman struck an unbeaten 103 to lead India to a 19-run victory over world champions Australia in their tri-series one-day match last night.

India inflicted Australia's first loss in the series after Saurav Ganguly's side won the toss and elected to bat, piling up a massive 303-4 at the Gabba ground in Brisbane.

In reply, Australia were bowled out for 286 in 49.4 overs. Left-handed opener Hayden top-scoring with a powerful 109 from just 107 balls.

Left-arm seamer Irfan Pathan took three for 64 for India, including the key wickets of opener Adam Gilchrist (21), Hayden and Michael Clarke (42), while Lakshmipathy Balaji claimed a career-best four for 48 as Australia's victory hopes faded.