Australia still up against it

Australia gave themselves some much-needed relief by finally getting a win under their belts with victory over New Zealand in the third one-day international on Sunday. They are, though, still 2-0 down in the series, and Tuesday's fourth match could yet seal their fate.

Ricky Ponting's side salvaged some pride and avoided a sixth straight defeat but they still have to win the remaining two games, the first of which is in Adelaide on Tuesday, to avoid losing a series to their neighbours, something they will be desperate to do.

However, while Brad Haddin led the way with a fine century, Australia still struggled to win, despite scoring over 300. New Zealand batted pretty well, thanks to a hundred from Grant Elliott and their confidence will not have been affected by the result of Sunday's match.

Bet365 make Australia 2/5 to win in Adelaide, while New Zealand are 7/4 to get the win they need for the series victory.

Australia have dropped David Warner and Ryan Harris for the rest of the series, with fast bowler Peter Siddle returning to the side.

Captain Ricky Ponting is the 10/3 favourite to top-score but he has yet to hit the heights in this series and looks a little out of touch to me. Michael Clarke, who is playing well, is next at 7/2, while Haddin is 4/1 to repeat his heroics of Sunday. Michael Hussey is 9/2.

New Zealand are waiting on the fitness of Brendon McCullum, who batted on Sunday despite injury. McCullum is 10/3 second favourite, though, headed only by Ross Taylor, the 3/1 favourite. Elliott is 9/2 and Martin Guptill 5/1, while Peter Fulton is 11/2.

There is no reason, to my mind at least, while New Zealand cannot win this match. One win does not make a summer, as you might say, and the Black Caps' desire for the series win could give them the edge they require.