Australian Changes for Final ODI

Kevin Pietersen and Simon Katich are both expected to miss the third and final Super Series ODI in Melbourne tomorrow.

Pietersen will have scans today to determine the extent of the tear to his right hamstring, which he injured while fielding during the second match of the series. Pietersen is not likely to play in the third match and risk re-injuring the hamstring, with the up-coming England tour of Pakistan in mind.

Simon Katich is suffering from a sore groin, and will most likely miss the third game, which with Australia winning the second match, is now a dead rubber.

Katich has slotted into the opening spot with great aplomb. His partnership with in form batsman Adam Gilchrist has been a significant factor in Australia’s success during the series. It will be interesting to see whom the selectors will choose to partner Gilchrist at the top of the order in Katich’s absence.

Australia do have some good news however with Glenn McGrath expected to return to lead the Australian attack. McGrath was in fine form during the first match bowling at his miserly best. The bowler who will make way for McGrath, will consider himself most unlucky, as all the Australian bowlers have been in good form.