Continuing their poor run in the tournament, India suffered their fourth defeat in five matches, losing to Australia by nine wickets in the World Series of women's cricket in New Zealand on Tuesday.

Already out of contention for a berth in the final, the Indians concentrated on batting through their quota of 50 overs rather than going for a win. They put up a score of 134 for seven, which Australia overhauled in only 28 overs, losing the wicket of captain Belinda Clark for 49.

India's openers, Anjum Chopra and D Rumeli, put on 48 runs for the first wicket but consumed nearly 25 overs.

Chopra emerged the top-scorer with 25 runs while Rumeli contributed 16. S Naik was the other notable scorer, making 18 runs.

There were 19 extras in the total.

For Australia, Clea Smith and Alex Blackwell took two wickets each.

Australia faced no difficulty chasing the target. Opener Lisa Sthalekar remained unbeaten on 58 off 80 balls. Karen Rolton was the other unbeaten batswoman, making 21 off 21 balls.

India have six points from five matches (5 points for a win and one bonus point) and will next take on England in their last league encounter on Thursday.

Australia and New Zealand, who meet in the last league encounter on Wednesday, face each other in the final.