The cricket rivalry between England and Australia extends beyond Test matches into the dynamic arena of One Day Internationals (ODIs). This ODI rivalry, which has been different from “The Ashes,” has been equally compelling and historically significant. The two nations have engaged in numerous ODI encounters, particularly during ODI World Cups, where matches have left an indelible mark on cricket history.
There have been several iconic moments in this rich history, including the 1987 World Cup final, exemplify the intensity of their ODI battles. These contests are marked by a balanced history, passionate fans, and a legacy of competitiveness that continues to captivate cricket enthusiasts, ensuring that England vs. Australia ODIs remains a celebrated tradition. But unfortunately, this particular edition of the World Cup has been contrasting for both teams.
The defending champions, England find themselves in a spot of bother considering where the team is placed at the moment. The England team have certainly been below par in all three departments and this is the reason why they are currently placed at the last spot on the points table. On the other hand, the five-time World Champions, Australia had a poor start to their campaign losing their first two matches of World Cups against India and South Africa. But from then onwards the kangaroos have hardly put a foot wrong and have gone on to win their next four matches. With both these teams clashing against each other
Here are the 3 key battles to watch out for:
1. Mitchell Starc vs Joe Root
The first mouth-watering contest is going to be between the star Australian pacer Mitchell Starc who will be taking the new ball for the Australian team. Starc has not been in his prime in the World Cup 2023 but in World Cups, the legendary bowler always comes up with his A game. In the six games that he has played so far in the tournament, he has managed to pick up seven wickets.
For England there will be classic Joe Root who will be up against him. The star England batter has not been in his prime throughout the tournament. In the ODI history so far, these two giants have faced each other quite a number of times. But Root has had that edge over Starc as he averages 51 against the veteran speedster.
2. Jos Buttler vs Adam Zampa
The second battle to look forward to will be between England skipper Jos Buttler and Adam Zampa, who is currently the leading wicket-taker in this edition of the World Cup. On the other hand, Buttler has had a dismal show with the bat in the tournament so far. In the ODIs so far, Zampa has troubled the England skipper. Buttler averages only 10.50 against the Australian spin wizard in the ODI clashes so far and Zampa has also got better of Buttler on four occasions
3. Steven Smith vs Adil Rashid
Another fascinating contest will be between one of the stalwarts of the Australian batting department, Steven Smith up against the spin wizard from England Adil Rashid. Overall, both the players have substantially not performed as the team would have expected from them. In total, both these players have had a probably one-sided contest as Adil has been better than Smith on six occasions, which is huge considering the format.
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