Australia want to get serious

	Ricky Ponting has cut a frustrated figure in Australia's recent matches © AFP Enlarge
Related Links Players/Officials: Kamran Akmal | Ricky Ponting | Shoaib Akhtar | Umar Akmal Matches: Australia v Pakistan at Colombo (RPS) Series/Tournaments: ICC Cricket World Cup Teams: Australia | Pakistan

The Big Picture

It's all about jostling for position in Group A with both Australia and Pakistan still eyeing a top-of-the-table finish and, potentially, a slightly easier quarter-final, although that is a debatable point given the form of teams on in the opposite group. These two teams have served up some classic confrontations in their time and Pakistan were the last side to beat Ricky Ponting's team at a World Cup - way back on May 23, 1999.

Australia remain the only unbeaten team in this edition having overcome Kenya and Canada in Bangalore, but not without a few unconvincing moments with bat and ball. The sight of Ponting losing his cool is a clear sign that he is far from happy with how his team are currently shaping up in what has been a odd tournament for them. Their biggest match, against Sri Lanka, was washed out and the rest have been easy - perhaps too much so.

For the sake of fine-tuning before the quarter-finals Australia need to be pushed. That, though, depends on which Pakistan turn up. They aren't really a side motivated by group positions with their progression safely assured. Still, Australia's bowlers know they'll need to be better than over the last week against a talented, if unpredictable, Pakistan batting line-up. The likes of Ponting, Cameron White and Steven Smith need some time in the middle, too.

Pakistan's bowling attack should provide a proper test even if Shoaib Akhtar doesn't play. Shahid Afridi is having a memorable tournament with the ball and there are plenty of other spin options that could trouble Australia. However, don't be surprised if their unbeaten World Cup record is extended for at least another week.

Form guide

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Ricky Ponting is living up to the 'captain grumpy' tag at the moment following is angry display when he almost collided with Smith when taking a catch against Canada. He later admitted it didn't look good, but his mood was hardly improved when he pulled to square leg for 7 to continue a lean trot. His damaged little finger is clearly causing him problems, especially in the field, although Ponting will be desperate not to give an inch. However, it's been a long time since he made a telling contribution, and that pressure will start to tell at some point.

Umar Akmal is a tempestuous youngster who only knows one way to play: attack. He missed the last game with an ankle niggle but should be fit to take on Australia. His confrontation with the quicks will be worth viewing and he won't let the spinners settle. If Umar comes off he is fantastic to watch, but he's also equally likely to combust quickly. Either way, it won't be dull viewing.