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England coach Giles 'making merry' over Oz problems ahead of Ashes

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ANI London

England's one-day coach Ashley Giles has admitted that England is reveling in Australia's problems at the start of the Ashes summer.

Giles has more cause to make merry with injured captain Michael Clarke still racing against time to make himself fit for Australia's showdown with England at the Champions Trophy opener on Saturday.

According to the Sun, Australia must recapture form and confidence in time for the eagerly awaited showdown with England at Edgbaston.

Admitting that he was delighted by the Australian collapse to just 65 all out in a warm-up match against India on Tuesday, Giles said that he is pleased that Australia did not get the practice and the confidence booster, which was very necessary for them.

 

Citing Clarke's struggles with his back problem, Giles said that the skipper is a talisman for Australia and if he misses the matches, it would be good for England although annoying for both Australia and Clarke himself.

Hoping for his team to have a comfortable time at Edgbaston, Giles however, said that Australia is a tough opposition, adding that they will be well prepared for which England must also make sure of their preparation.

According to the report, both the teams have a chance to inflict some psychological wounds before the Ashes series next month during the Champions Trophy opener, adding that in-form big-hitting England batsman Jos Buttler could be the key for England's positive chances in both the events.

The report further said that England will enter the Champions Trophy match in improved spirits after their 34-run victory over New Zealand at Trent Bridge, adding that despite losing the series 2-1, their consolation win has provided some momentum before they face the Australians.

Although there are still concerns over the one-paced nature of the English top-order, Giles, however, said that these problems could be driven away if Buttler plays the same innings he played in the ODI series, adding that he is also counting on Eoin Morgan to win games.

Giles further said that he is also confident that Stuart Broad and Steven Finn came will be fit to face Australia at Edgbaston.

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First Published: Jun 07 2013 | 10:22 AM IST

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