Natwest Series 2013 Schedule: Full Guide to Remaining England vs. Australia ODIs

Following the first two one-day internationals, England and Australia's marathon summer of cricket is just three matches away from conclusion.

That is, until it all begins again this Christmas.

For the time being, however, three more ODIs will prove crucial as both sides jostle for momentum and that vital psychological edge.

Here's a quick guide to what's left of this international summer of cricket.

3rd ODI: Wednesday, September 11—Edgbaston, Birmingham

Watch: Sky Sports 1, 14:00 BST

The next leg of the series stops off at Edgbaston, remarkably for the first time this tour, although both sides met here in the ICC Champions Trophy in June.

With England opting to rest key personnel, Australia will face a contrasting XI from the one they suffered defeat to by 48 runs.

Ian Bell scored a majestic—if a little slow—knock of 91 that day, while James Faulkner was his side's most consistent performer with both bat and ball.

4th ODI: Saturday, September 14—Sophia Gardens, Cardiff

Watch: Sky Sports 2, 10:15 BST

The fourth ODI sees both sides travel to Wales, again for the first time this summer. Sophia Gardens witnessed England's impressive rearguard effort during the last English Ashes, with James Anderson and Monty Panesar defying the Australians to claim a memorable draw.

Michael Clarke's side may be more familiar with the surface, having used it for both ICC Trophy warm-up games against the West Indies and India—winning the former and suffering a crushing defeat in the latter.

Shane Watson scored a rapid century against the West Indies and will look to replicate that success on his return to the ground.

5th ODI: Monday, September 16—The Rose Bowl, Southampton

Watch: Sky Sports 2, 14:00 BST

Australia's time in England culminates with a trip to Hampshire's run-heavy Ageas Bowl, the scene of Aaron Finch's world-record 156 from just 63 balls in the T20.

It would be fitting for the Ashes tour to finish with a similarly explosive contest to whet the appetite for the winter's festivities.

For England, hidden well beneath Finch's display were impressive contributions from Joe Root, Ravi Bopara and Jade Dernbach.

Prediction: Australia to win 3-1

Assuming rain doesn't interrupt any more cricket, Australia's explosive batting order is likely to prove too strong for England in this format of the game.

Despite a disappointing ICC Trophy, if only two of Finch, Watson, Clarke, George Bailey and Shaun Marsh get going, the visitors will still rack up a hefty total, and are helped by England's decision to rest leading individuals.

Both sides' bowling attacks look a little bit weak on paper, meaning the toss will be crucial. Scoreboard pressure will play a key part, and while England's batting depth is strong, it seems below the potential of their rivals.