Melbourne win a 'nice start' after Ashes defeat: Watson

Australian opening batsman Shane Watson, who hit a majestic century on Sunday, said that winning the Melbourne ODI against England was the perfect way to start the seven-match series.

Watson scored a career-best 161 not out as Australia surpassed England's score of 294 with five balls to spare.

"It's always nice to start the One-Day series after the Ashes defeat," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Watson, as saying.

"It's a beautiful wicket so we always knew it (the total) was in reach. It was nice to be there at the end," he added.

The 29-year-old hit 12 fours and faced 150 deliveries in a stunning display, his fifth ODI century.

It was also the highest successful run-chase at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in ODI history.