 After the worth of Ashes and significance of one day cricket due to World Cup in February, T20 cricket looks unimportant for the time being. These are the two sides that played the second ever T20 international game, before that Australia had played New Zealand in the inaugural T20.
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England are the world champions of this format, ironically defeating the Australians then as well. But prediction becomes hard given the unpredictability of the format. The game changes so quickly you don't know which way it will go.
Australia have lost only one T20 at home so far, that too recently against Sri Lanka. But this time Australia will play under new leadership. Michael Clarke has retired from T20 cricket after Ashes loss and Cameron White will replace him as captain. Australia become a different side when playing T20s.
Irresistible fire power in bowling comes in the form of Shaun Tait and Brett Lee, batting capabilities are extended by Dave Warner and Cameron White's abilities. Overall they look much more balanced in T20s than they do in Tests. The first of the two T20s takes place on January 12. The venue is favorable for the Aussies and they would believe that despite their rueful form in the last 10 months or so, they can find redemption at Adelaide Oval on Wednesday.
Australia have won only one of their last five T20s.
England, the T20 champions are on cloud no. 9 at the moment. After thrashing Australia 3-1 in the Ashes, the Barmy Army has all the momentum going into the first of two T20s. England have some of the best players in the format which include Kevin Peitersen, Eoin Morgan and Graeme Swann.
The T20 games might be less competitive since more importance is being given to one day cricket in light of World Cup. England like Australia rested Michael Hussey, have rested James Anderson for the seven match ODI series which will follow. Wicketkeeper opener Craig Kieswetter will miss out due to an injury and Michael Lumb, the man who partnered Kieswetter in the triumphant World T20 championship will make his replacement.
England hope they do not miss James Anderson who has been the leader of their attack in Ashes, although with the form of Tim Bresnan and Chris Tremlett it may not be such a worry. The first T20 at Adelaide Oval will be played under lights.
England have won all five of their last T20s.
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