AUSTRALIA hopes to gain a measure of revenge for their Ashes defeat by wrapping up the ODI series with victory over England at Headingley today.The tourists lead the five-match series 2-1 after wins at Southampton and Lord’s, before England’s 93-run victory at Old Trafford on Tuesday.
England bowler Chris Woakes has been ruled out with a thigh injury. Reece Topley or David Willey could come in.
Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc may be rested by coach Darren Lehmann.
Starc, the world’s top-ranked ODI bowler, played in the five-match Test series this summer and has been involved in the three one-dayers played so far.
“His workload over the past 12 months has been exceptional – we’ll see whether he plays or not tomorrow,” said Lehmann.
“We’re all tired, but that’s international cricket. That’s what you do when you’re representing your country.”
Rashid’s mindset ‘a lot clearer’
England spinner Adil Rashid has seven wickets in the three ODI matches so far and played a key role with 2-41 in the win in Manchester earlier this week.
Yorkshireman Rashid made his ODI debut in 2009 against Ireland and went on to play a further four that year, but did not earn another call-up until May.
“When I came into this one-day series I had a clear mindset of what my role is in this team and what I’m looking to do,” said Rashid.
“It’s a different set-up from when I first came in – a whole different environment. My mindset is a lot clearer, the coaches, the captain – the mindset of the team is a lot clearer.
“And playing against the best batsmen in the world gives you confidence, especially if you’re taking a few wickets as well.”
Since the Ashes defeat, four Australia stalwarts have retired: captain Michael Clarke, opener Chris Rogers, wicketkeeper Brad Haddin and all-rounder Shane Watson, although the latter is still available for shorter formats.