World champions Australia booked their place in the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia after they held on to defeat Great Britain 2-1 on Thursday in a top-of-the-table clash.

The Australians could meet great rivals New Zealand in the final at the weekend after the Kiwis kept their slim hopes alive with a 7-3 demolition of India. That means co-defending champions India have surrendered their crown.

Australia will most likely meet either Great Britain or Pakistan in the final. Both have nine points.

If both teams win their last matches Saturday it will be decided by goal difference or if that proves indecisive a shoot-out between the two teams.

However, New Zealand are just about alive in the tournament after they destroyed a disappointing India. The Kiwis will squeeze into the final if they win their last game and Great Britain and Pakistan both lose.