A time of transition for Australia

Though Ricky Ponting will return to captain Australia after a period of rest, Michael Clarke's leadership in the first two one-dayers in England has provided enough indication that the gradual transition towards his taking over the role on a long-term basis has begun. Oliver Brett shares his insights in his blog on the BBC Sport website.

He [Clarke] has performed some sort of minor miracle by converting Shane Watson, a reluctant bowler indeed during the Ashes, into a devastating wicket-taking option.

And his aggressive field placement throughout England's innings at Lord's on Sunday was rewarded handsomely when wickets kept on falling. Of the recognised batsmen, only Paul Collingwood - starved of the easy singles which he so often dines out on - lasted until the final overs, by which point Brett Lee would not be denied.