Australia go into the World Cup quarter finals with a confidence-boosting seven-wicket win over Scotland, but without their desired match practice.

Set a less-than inspiring target of 131 for victory at Bellerive Oval on Saturday the hosts easily met the challenge in less than 16 overs during a rain-interrupted game.

Skipper Michael Clarke (47) top-scored for the Aussies, narrowly missing his half century, after being elevated to open alongside Aaron Finch (20).

Clarke on Friday spoke of his need to spend more time at the crease ahead of the tournament’s knockout finals, adding that allrounders Shane Watson (24) and James Faulkner needed to do the same.

But after being set such a low target, there just wasn’t the time.

Finch blasted three boundaries and a six before his fourth-over dismissal, caught at cover of a full Rob Taylor (1-29) delivery.

The reshuffled batting order then brought Watson in at the much-discussed No.3 position, for a 50-run partnership with Clarke.

Watson fell soon after that milestone, caught behind after trying to sweep a Josh Davey (1-38) delivery.

Iain Wardlaw (1-57) snared Clarke the next over with a short ball angling in, which Clarke sent to deep square leg, to be caught.

The task was then set for David Warner (21 not out) and James Faulkner (16 not out) with the latter sealing the deal with a six, taking the Aussies to 3-133.

Australia earlier won the toss and chose to bowl first, with Mitchell Starc (4-14) wreaking havoc against the visitors.

In combination with Pat Cummins (3-42) the pair led a fierce bowling attack against which the Scots had no defence.

Five of Scotland’s batsmen, including opener Kyle Coetzer and captain Preston Mommsen, were dismissed without score.

The winless tourists’ total of 130, in 26 overs, was their lowest for the 2015 tournament.

Australia finishes second in Pool A and will contest a quarter final, likely against the winner of Pakistan and Ireland at Adelaide Oval on Friday.