Smith,Amla star in South African win over Aussies

Openers Graeme Smith and Hashim Amla struck half-centuries on Tuesday to guide South Africa to a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over Australia in a World Cup warmup match at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Captain Smith smashed 65 and Amla made 60 as South Africa raced to its target of 218 in 44.2 overs,condemning three-time defending champion Australia to a second successive practice defeat before the World Cup.

Both Smith and Amla retired in a bid to give others batting practice.

Australia,which lost to India two days previously,was all out for 217 as pace bowler Dale Steyn and left-arm spinner Robin Peterson bagged three wickets apiece.

For Australia,Michael Clarke top-scored with 73 and captain Ricky Ponting made 55.