Tendulkar's superb 175 in vain as Australia win

HYDERABAD, India (Reuters) - A remarkable innings of 175 in 141 balls by Sachin Tendulkar proved in vain when Australia took a 3-2 lead in the series with a thrilling three-run win over India in the fifth one-dayer Thursday.

Chasing 351 for victory, the home team were bowled out for 347 with two balls left after the brilliant Tendulkar became the first man to reach 17,000 ODI runs.

He put on yet another batting masterclass to add 137 for the fifth wicket with Suresh Raina (59) but debutant Clint McKay struck the all-important blow for Australia when he removed Tendulkar with India needing 19 from 18 deliveries.

"It was one of my best innings, I was striking the ball very well," Tendulkar told the prize-giving ceremony.

"There was constant pressure but we maintained the run rate and brought the game close. But in the end it was disappointing."

Earlier, a maiden century by Shaun Marsh (112) and 93 from fellow opener Shane Watson helped the visitors compile an imposing 350 for four after opting to bat.

Man of the match Tendulkar set the pace as he anchored India's reply before falling short of what would have been the second highest successful run chase in ODI cricket.

He thumped 19 fours and four sixes as he tore into an injury-weakened Australian attack, making his intentions clear when he hit off-spinner Nathan Hauritz for two consecutive sixes.

SLOWER BALL