England vs Australia ODI series : mid series overview

After an enthralling Ashes series, wherein a technically superior England lifted the Ashes for the 3rd consecutive time by overcoming a talented but in-experienced Australian side by 3 tests to 1. But when we look at the ODI teams of the respective countries, it looks evenly matched, and the T20 series was a clear indication.

Both the countries won a game apiece. While Aaron Finch’s record breaking 156 helped Australia overcome England in the first T20, the England team got it’s revenge in the 2nd ODI by defeating Australia by 27 runs, thanks to an excellent knock by Alex Hales.

Now the ODI series did not start off in an auspicious fashion, as the first match was washed out without even a ball being bowled. The second ODI was won comprehensively by Australia. Though the victory margin is only 88 runs, the England team were clueless, considering that only 3 of their players made it to double digit scores(all three scored more than 50 runs)

Midway through the series, it is evident that Australian team have an upper hand. Though both the teams have equally in-experienced youngsters, it is the role of the senior players which will be cruicial.

In terms of experience, England have the likes of Kevin Pieterson and Johnathan Trott, whereas Australians have Michael Clarke and Mitchell Johnson, who is making a comeback after a pretty long time.

Though both the teams have equally in-experienced youngsters, it is the role of the senior players which will be cruicial. The point is evident from the fact that crucial knocks from both the teams were played by experienced batsmen.

If we look at the bowling attack, the Australian attack looks much stronger. Mitchell Johnson made a sucessful comeback, taking two crucial wickets, whereas Faunkner and Mckay also chipped in with wickets. Spinner Fawad Ahmed made a modest debut, but he will come good as he gains experience. But the England attack clearly lacks "genuine" experience. Steven Finn leads the attack, who ironically, was the most expensive among the English bowlers. Boyd Rankin was impressive in his debut for England.

The batting looks evenly matched. Both the teams have extremely talented batsmen, headed by senior players like Clarke for Australia and Trott and Pieterson for England. Finch has been impressive and would like to continue his good form, whereas Morgan was among a few bright spots for England from the second ODI.

Now as for the rest of the series, it would be interesting as to how the batsmen from both the teams play. It is evident that English batsmen look out-of-sorts and they will have to do well in the coming ODI’s.

As far as Australian team is concerned, they would like to continue their momentum and try to savage some pride by winning this ODI series.

Possible series outcome- 2-2 or 3-1 to Australia

Current score of 3rd ODI :
England 57/3 at drinks after being put to bat by Australia.