Murray Wenzel / AAP News

Australia’s women’s 3×3 basketball team are one win away from the gold-medal game while a loss to England means the men have to go the long way in Birmingham.

A 21-2 defeat of Sri Lanka ensured Australia’s women topped their pool and will face the winners of England and Kenya in Monday night’s Commonwealth Games semi-final.

Impressive in two opening-day wins in the sport’s debut, Australia’s men stumbled in a 17-12 loss to the hosts at the Smithfield venue.

Daniel Johnson continued his good form with eight points but England was never headed, maintaining their lead until the clock expired after 10 minutes to top their pool.

That booked them direct entry into the final four, while Australia will play Scotland for a spot in the final should they beat Kenya on Monday.