Australia survived a thrilling burst from Adil Rashid to win the final match in their Twenty20 series against England by five wickets

Southampton: Australia survived a thrilling burst from Adil Rashid to win the final match in their Twenty20 series against England by five wickets and keep the number one ranking.

Australia vs EnglandTop spot was on the line at the Rose Bowl, after England twice beat Aaron Finch's side to make sure they would win the series. This third and final game presented a chance for England to swipe away Australia's proud world-leading status, but the tourists raised their game to protect that position.

Rashid's 3-21, including a glorious googly that outfoxed Finch, almost turned the match England's way, but their attack was blunted once his allocation was used up, and the tourists stayed calm to get the job done.

Australian Cricket TeamMitchell Marsh made his highest T20 international score - 39 not out - to guide Australia beyond England's 145-6, his chancy single off Chris Jordan securing the win with three balls to spare.

It means Australia remain premiers in the International Cricket Council's T20 standings, albeit with England perched right behind them.