AUS vs ENG 2022: 3 Takeaways that would be crucial in lead-up to the World Cup

Australia vs England (Source: Twitter)

It could have been unexpected, but it wasn't entirely out of reckoning that England would dominate Australia at their home, this easily. The outstanding form of the English side from the Pakistan series has been on continuous display. 

While the defeat Aussies suffered did gave them a reality check, it won't be shocking if they make some minute changes in strategy going into the mega-event. So, while this series was a perfect prep for the World Cup, we will look at three takeaways from this magnificent face-off.

 1. Smith could be sidelined

If it wasn't evident before, it is now. Steve Smith might have to sit on the bench if Cameron Green somehow makes his way into the squad that will play the World Cup. The possible reason is that Smith's lack of momentum in the shorter format saw him struggling in the India series, where he scored just 52 runs in the three matches he played.

He didn't feature in the first two games, and when he got the opportunity in the final game, it was rain who won.

 2. English batting order looks settled

More or less, but the dynamic duo of Jos Buttler and Alex Hales are doing a fine job for their country. However, the best and most dangerous combination in this World Cup will probably be from England. Add Dawid Malan, and they are never short of runs, that is for sure.

There aren't many teams with such a balance at the top of the order where they could go bang-bang right from ball one without worrying, thanks to their stable middle order comprising Ben Stokes, Moeen Ali and Harry Brook.

3. Mark Wood's return a big boost for England

While many pacers had succumbed to injuries even before the World Cup started, Mark Wood has made his way back into the national setup after recovering from his knee issues. His return has been highly fruitful, especially his pace, which is in the range of 145 most of the time.

During the Pakistan series, he grabbed six wickets in two matches bowling short and fast. However, even during this series, he bowled with his heart and hopefully would continue to deliver some important spells for his country.

Also Read: Fakhar Zaman replaces Usman Qadir in Pakistan squad