 Australia out of nowhere have found form and discipline to go 2-0 up in the seven
match series. England, despite their good starts in the both the game cannot seem
to get hold of the situations and force themselves into a winning position. The
series which is going into Australia's favour immediately has a long way to go
still. The third ODI will be played on Sunday at SCG under lights.
Australia are in total command in the series but have problems in terms of
injuries. Mitchell Johnson who missed the game at Hobart is still in
doubt but will most probably play while Shaun Tait and Nathan Hauritz
are likely to be left out due to injuries.
Click for Live Score Card of Australia Vs England
This comes as a blow to the Australian ranks who have two key players Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey ruled out because of injuries. Xavier Doherty
is likely to play in the Sydney ODI and if Mitchell Johnson recovers he will
replace Tait.
Shaun Marsh has announced himself with the bang with a crucial ton. He and Shane Watson will be the key as far as the batting is concerned. Australia
despite the injury concerns are not out of depth. It has been hinted that Shaun
Marsh will bat up the order at SCG on January 23. Australia look set to win
a series after January last year, and they will be taking a massive step towards
it if they win at Sydney.
Australia have won three of their last five ODIs.
England are falling to a familiar position. Last time around after Ashes, they
fell to an embarrassing 6-1 loss when they lost the first six games. 2-0 another
thwarting loss in the on the cards, but this time there is World Cup that will
follow.
England, like Australia are without their key players and that does make a
significant difference. England's lack batting of batting discipline will be
a worry for Andrew Strauss. Despite their fightback, Australia managed a meek
score of 230 in the last game but England faltered during the chase and lost
by 46 runs. The conditions at SCG wouldn't get any better of England as the
wicket will offer turn and possible movement under lights.
If England lose this game that means they have to win all the remaining four.
England would be desperate to halt their marginal slip of form. Sydney can prove
to be a turnaround for England when they look to avoid slipping further.
England have won one of their last four ODIs.
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