White, Hussey guide Aussies' to five-wicket win against Middlesex

London, June 20(ANI): Australian batsmen Cameron White and Michael Hussey powered the Aussies to a five-wicket triumph over Middlesex at Lord's in their final warm-up fixture before the NatWest Series.

Chasing 274 for victory, Australia had slumped to 64-4 in the 11th over before the pair saved the day to guide the team to 277-5 with 13 to spare.

Australian openers Tim Paine (10), Shane Watson (24) captain Ricky Ponting (17) and Michael Clarke (0) were the batsmen dismissed during a calamitous start to the run chase.

White (106 off 120 balls) and Hussey (72 not out off 99 balls) added a match-winning 176 for the fifth wicket, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.

The 26-year-old Victorian right-hander hit eight fours and a six to reach his maiden hundred at Lord's.

Earlier, Middlesex skipper Adam Gilchrist won the toss and decided to bat first.

The Middlesex score was built around an elegant 92 from Owais Shah, who hopes the knock may remind England's selectors of his quality.

Apart from fast bowler Doug Bollinger, who took three for 24, the Australian attack struggled and leaked 90 runs in the final 10 overs, including 16 in the last over.

Australia begins the five-match one-day series against England at the Rose Bowl on Tuesday. (ANI)