A clash with lowly Scotland will be Australia’s last chance to draw breath before the knockout phase of the World Cup starts.
But apart from the three days of rest the 15-man squad will enjoy before assembling in Hobart, Michael Clarke expects his teammates to be absolutely ruthless this week.
Australia’s 64-run win over Sri Lanka on Sunday all but ensured they will finish second in Pool A and avoid meeting South Africa in a quarter-final.
The SCG victory also effectively removed the prospect of Australia playing a semi-final in Auckland.
But before they can start worrying about a quarter-final at Adelaide Oval on March 20, Clarke’s men meet the winless Scots on Saturday.
“I don’t think much changes in regards to attitude,” Clarke said.
“It’s one of the major positives with this team at the moment, it doesn’t matter who we’re playing against.
“It will be nice for everyone’s body and mind to get away from cricket for a couple days.
“But once we get into Hobart, it’ll be full steam ahead looking to become better individually and as a team … that’ll be our goal over the next week.”
Australia amassed a total of 9-376 against Sri Lanka, but their bowling wasn’t quite as productive.
Tillakaratne Dilshan thumped Mitchell Johnson for six fours in one of his overs, while Xavier Doherty and Shane Watson also copped some treatment.
However, Mitchell Starc continued his excellent form, proving himself one of the best bowlers in the World Cup.
“He’s bowling beautifully at the moment,” Clarke said.
“He’s bowling quite fast with the new ball and swinging it … and I think his death bowling is very good.”
Watson was dropped last Wednesday due to a lack of runs with the bat, only to be recalled by national selectors because of his experience with the ball.
The allrounder went for 10.14 runs an over, but batted superbly and claimed the important scalp of captain Angelo Mathews.
Watson’s prompt recall surprised many pundits, but Clarke was keen to steer clear of any discussions about selectors or selections.
“I’m not going there. The selectors pick the 11 players and my job is to try and get the best out of the XI,” Clarke said.
“No chance am I getting hold of that hook.”
