NatWest Series 2013: Last-Minute Predictions for 2nd ODI

After a sodden, wet Headingley saw the first one-day international abandoned, England and Australia travel to Manchester to contest the second game of the five-match series on Sunday. 

England are, of course, proud holders of the sacred urn after their 3-0 triumph in the summer's Tests, while two explosive T20 ties produced a 1-1 outcome.

With just that one official tour win, Australia will be especially keen to build momentum for the winter and take the gloss off England's Ashes win by lifting this trophy.

Here’s a look at some last-minute predictions for the second ODI.

Aaron Finch Smashes England’s Quicks

Aaron Finch is in the most destructive form of his life, smashing a brutal 148 off 114 balls against Scotland, following his remarkable, world-record 156 from just 63 deliveries in the first T20.

Despite his fearsome reputation in 20-over cricket, in which he’s captained an IPL franchise, Finch is yet to establish himself in the 50-over side—something that will surely change this series. With David Warner excluded, he has the perfect platform to star for Australia and continue hitting bowlers over the ropes.

Steven Finn and Boyd Rankin were a little inconsistent with their line and length against Ireland, often dispatched to the boundary early on. Look for Finch to crank up the pressure with an explosive burst of elaborate shots that gets Australia off to a rapid start.

James Tredwell Key to England's Hopes

James Tredwell has quietly become one of England’s most influential performers in the one-day format. He was the only bowler to offer control as well as any persistent threat against Ireland, and he will play an important role with several key players missing.

The offbreak bowler chipped in with a typically miserly 2-35 from his 10 overs against Ireland, with most of his teammates going for at least five runs an over. Having deputised for Graeme Swann for much of his career, he has another opportunity to enhance his position as his country’s first-choice, limited overs spinner—a role he has a genuine chance of earning.

Tredwell has taken 21 wickets in his 11 ODIs this year, and should receive extra assistance from the Old Trafford wicket. Look for him to rein in the Australians after their openers get off to a flier.

Australia to Win

This may seem a bold prediction, given the nature of England’s 3-0 Ashes win, but Australia’s T20 performances showed how lethal they can be in limited overs cricket.

As long as enough players are in sync, they have a truly destructive batting order capable of overpowering any opposition. With the Ashes gone they will be especially motivated to take this trophy and England’s decision to rest key performers may prove decisive.