http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Australia-c746 – 5th ODI – Match Preview
A Deflated Australian side look to salvage some pride as they take on an imposing English contingent in the fifth and final game of NatWest series, played at Old Trafford, Manchester, today, July 10, 2012.
‘Bullied’ was the word used by the visiting team Coach, http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Mickey-Arthur-c1969, to describe the extent of dominance his side had to bear from the hosts, questioning the ability of his players to cope in a format where they are currently ranked no.1.
In an extensive interview, Arthur was shocked at the ease at which the English batters and bowlers have mentally derailed his players, adding that something is seriously missing and that something, he simply cannot figure it out himself.
The defeats could be attributed to various factors but for starters, it has to be the bowling lineup. Having been blessed with six quality pacers, the team failed to test the home side, which had http://www.senore.com/Cricket/TT-Bresnan-c2711 coming in at 7. Then comes a batting lineup, which
barring from http://www.senore.com/Cricket/GP-Swann-c1501.
With every game, their margin of defeat has increased and that in itself suggests the gulf between the two sides, which has increased in recent times. While it is unfair to keep this series in mind as an estimate to the eventual outcome of the Ashes next
year, the fact remains that the current Aussie generation are certainly lacking not only in stature, but in talent as well.
The final game however, remains significant in terms of their morale. Michael Clarke has already suffered his first series loss since taking in charge at relatively the same time last year, and a 4-0 margin will certainly mean his side will have to relinquish
their ODI supremacy, either to England or http://www.senore.com/Cricket/South-Africa-c757, in days to come.
Their squad has already been hit hard by injuries with http://www.senore.com/Cricket/MG-Johnson-c1945 will be looked upon to
add some element of aggression. Batting order could see a reshuffle, with http://www.senore.com/Cricket/SPD-Smith-c2555 coming in at 7.
To suggest that England is strong at home will be an understatement. They arguably have the best bowling unit and to match that, have an even solid, Test-look, top-order, which hardly misfires. The two stand-out performers in the series have been http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Harold-William-Stephenson-c61707 Finn
and http://www.senore.com/Cricket/IR-Bell-c1597 and both will be eyeing to inflict a pleasurable whitewash to their struggling opponents.
Their commanding nature will also send some jitters in another touring came, with South Africa already starting their preparations by locking in a practice match with http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Somerset-c843.
The lineup could have a few changes, keeping in mind the rotational policy. One player who will be eagerly hoping to get his chance will be Chris Woakes. He has travelled all round the country but has yet to feature. However, the final game, if rain permits,
could be his lucky debut day.
http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Samit-Patel-c2426. The batting lineup looks settled and will be eying to help the side achieve their 10th straight ODI win.
Both sides had to train indoor and the weather forecast further suggests showers.
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