David Warner
David Warner recorded his third one-day century at the SCG Getty Images

David Warner struck his third one-day century as Australia thrashed England by three wickets with 10.1 overs to spare in the tri-series opener at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

England amassed 234 all out, with captain Eoin Morgan making 121 to drag his side towards a respectable total. But four wickets from Mitchell Starc, which included getting Ian Bell and James Taylor within the first three balls of the innings, gave the hosts the advantage at the midway point.

Chris Woakes dismissed opener Aaron Finch in the seventh over but Warner was unstoppable amid a vintage summer for the New South Wales batsman as he made 127 before being caught by Bell.

By that time, Australia were within touching distance of victory and though George Bailey, Glenn Maxwell and Brad Haddin were all dismissed cheaply at the back-end of the innings, James Faulkner struck the winning runs to give England plenty to consider ahead of their next match against India on Tuesday 20 January.

Australia face India in their second of four group matches in Brisbane on Sunday 18 January as they look to cement their status as favourites for the upcoming Cricket World Cup on home turf.