Australia hoping for sunshine in Manchester

Tourists eager to impress in second ODI against England.

LEEDS:

Australia vice-captain George Bailey is praying the Manchester weather will not stop his side from giving England a tough time at Old Trafford today.

Rain washed out the opening One-Day International (ODI) at Headingley in Leeds on Friday, leaving the tourists kicking their heels in frustration.

Having picked themselves up from losing the Ashes to come away with a 1-1 draw in the Twenty20 series, Michael Clarke’s men now want to ensure the long trip home will be a happier voyage.

And Bailey says he and his team-mates are desperate to take out their Ashes disappointment. “Leeds was very frustrating,” he said. “There’s nothing worse than sitting in your hotel room and watching the rain fall.

“Winning the ODI series would give everyone a lift, so we are desperate for some sunshine in Manchester. We’re also building towards the next World Cup. So it’s important not to miss out on any competitive 50-over action.”

Morgan eager to use ODI boost for Ashes return

Acting England skipper Eoin Morgan is keen to use the ODIs as a springboard to get involved in the return Ashes series in Australia later this year.

“I would love to get back into the Test team and go to Australia,” said Morgan. “If that opportunity arose at the end of the summer, I would be a very happy man.”

After the match today, they will play the third game at Edgbaston on Wednesday.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 8^th, 2013.

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