England vs Australia: Preview, pitch report and head-to-head records
Hosts England are all set to take on title holders Australia in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019 at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Thursday. The Three Lions, who finished on the third spot, will enjoy the home advantage. Notably, Australia had defeated England in the league match, but are facing injury concerns. Here we present the match preview.
Australia have advantage over the hosts in head-to-head clashes
Considering the head-to-head record between the sides, they have played 148 ODIs, with Australia winning 82, while England have pocketed 61. Meanwhile, in England, both the sides have played on 69 occasions, with England marginally ahead with 34 wins, while Australia have won 31. However, England have been on the receiving end in the World Cup, winning just two out of eight matches.
England look to take advantage of home conditions
England have lost three games in the tournament so far, with one of them being against the Aussies. Nonetheless, they won their last two games in the league stage. Also, they beat India at Birmingham during this tournament. Thus, the momentum would be on their side, with a star-studded line-up, coupled with great batting form and display.
Aussies on a high following flawless performance
As for Australia, they lost just a couple of games in this tournament, against India and South Africa. However, this would be their first game of the tournament in Birmingham. As a result, the unfamiliarity of the conditions could trouble them. But, going by their form, the venue is least of their concern. Having said that, they would miss the services of Usman Khawaja.
A high scoring track could await the teams at Edgbaston
The ground has seen four matches so far, with mixed results. While the opening two matches saw average total being scored, the team batting second won it. However, the final two matches were high-scoring, and the team batting first won. Thus, chances are the track is likely to assist batsmen. Also, with 50% chance of rain, expect interruptions as reserve day is in store.
When, where and how to watch?
Match: England vs Australia Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham Time: 3:00 PM IST Where to watch (TV): Star Sports 1, 2, Select 1 and other regional languages channels of Star Sports. Where to watch (Online): Hotstar
