Shane Watson has smashed 59 from 31 balls to lift Australia to 157-4 against England after winning the toss in the first Twenty20 cricket international on Wednesday.

Test opener Watson hit six fours and three sixes as Australia's most assertive batsman on Wednesday, taking 26 runs from one over from England spinner Graeme Swann.

He was supported in an 83-run partnership for the first wicket by David Warner who made 30 from 28 balls with five fours. David Hussey followed up with 28 from 27 balls while Aaron Smith and Steven Smith were both 15 not out when the innings ended.

Michael Yardy was the best England bowler, taking 2-28 from his four overs.