Australia keen to keep up winning momentum ahead of ODI World Cup

Fresh off securing their fifth T20 World Cup title, Australia have turned their attention to the ODI World Cup in New Zealand next year. The side are keen to keep up their winning momentum despite the enforced break brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. Australia were scheduled to tour South Africa for three-match ODI and T20I series last month, but the fast spreading virus meant the tour was suspended.

Australia have won 18 consecutive ODIs since the start of 2018, losing only one ODI since they were knocked out of the 2017 World Cup by India in the semi-final in Derby. The small blip aside, Australia have been ruthless, whitewashing the likes of India, Pakistan, New Zealand, England, West Indies and Sri Lanka on their way to qualifying directly for the ODI World Cup in New Zealand.

Despite the current halt in momentum, Nicola Carey, Australia allrounder, hopes Australia can continue to improve and display their dominance on the international arena.

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"We'd like to be playing as many games as we can leading into a tournament like a World Cup and this one is no different," Carey told reporters via a video conference on Wednesday (April 15).

"Not really sure what will happen when we go back for pre-season and how it will affect domestic and international cricket for that matter. But definitely would love to play as many games as possible but there are bigger things at play here so we'll just see what happens."

Before the showpiece event early next tear, Australia are meant to host New Zealand and India for a tri-series, which will all be a precursor to the World Cup in New Zealand which begins on January 30.

With Australia having spent much of the last two years focusing on their T20 strategy, 2020 would have been the ideal time for them to play themselves into ODI mode - something they have been unable to do. Carey admitted that the quicker the players are able to get back to training and playing, the better prepared they will be.

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"Naturally if we're going into a 50-over World Cup that's what we'd be focused on," Carey said.

"Particularly when you go to training camps and things like that, you focus on the match scenario-like stuff. I'd imagine if we can't get international teams out here for the back end of our season the World Cup may be difficult to have."

"I'm not sure what's happening with the travel restrictions, but it's a fair way away," she said.

With the England and Wales Cricket Board yet to announce the fate of their new 'The Hundred' competition, Carey - who was snapped up by Northern Superchargers - understands the need to be prepared at all times.

Meanwhile, the Australian players are in contact via social media, and continue keeping themselves busy by completing their strength programs and other household chores.