BIRMINGHAM, July 11:  England stormed into the World Cup final with an eight-wicket victory over Australia at Edgbaston on Thursday after yet another century opening partnership from Jason Roy (85) and Jonny Bairstow (34).

England, who won with nearly 18 overs to spare, will meet New Zealand in Sunday’s final at Lord’s with a first-time World Cup winner guaranteed.

Record five-times champions Australia were bowled out for 223, Steve Smith making 85 against quality English bowling with Chris Woakes taking 3-20.

But England’s opening pair shared their fourth consecutive century partnership, reaching 124 before Bairstow was trapped lbw in the 18th over.

Joe Root (49 not out) and Eoin Morgan (45 not out) saw England comfortably to victory and their first appearance in the final since 1992.

 
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