Australia defeat to South Africa sets up England semi-final at Edgbaston

Australia will play England in the Cricket World Cup semi-finals after defeat to South Africa in the final group game of this year's tournament, coupled with India's win over Sri Lanka earlier on Sunday, consigned them to second place in the group standings.

Victory over the Proteas or a tie would have secured top spot for the Australians but despite a sparkling century from David Warner and a magnificent display of lower-order hitting from Alex Carey, Australia fell just ten runs short of their 326-run target at Old Trafford.

Earlier, South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis hit a 94-ball hundred as Australia's bowlers toiled on a belting Old Trafford wicket.

Ably assisted by Rassie van der Dussen (95 from 97 balls), Du Plessis helped South Africa reach 325-6 from their 50 overs and the Proteas were in control of the game when Kagiso Rabada had Glenn Maxwell caught behind to leave the Aussies 119-4.

However, that only brought Warner and Carey together and they counter-attacked with a dazzling 108-run fifth-wicket stand to put Australia within touching distance of a remarkable victory.

Carey continued to attack when Warner was eventually dismissed for a wonderful 122 but despite his best efforts, he couldn't haul his side over the winning line as Australia were bowled out for 315.

Defeat for Aaron Finch's men sets up a mouthwatering semi-final clash with old rivals England at Edgbaston on Thursday.

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