Brad Haddin says Australia’s players are being motivated by World Cup selection as they chase a one-day series triumph over England.
Leading 2-0 after wins in Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia can seal the five-game series with victory at the SCG on Sunday.
After the Ashes whitewash, Haddin says Australia are keen to add to England’s misery and that spots in the World Cup squad for the tournament in Australia and New Zealand in February and March next year are an extra incentive.
“We are trying to put a squad together now and leading into the World Cup we are giving guys an opportunity to show their worth in every game,” Haddin said on Saturday.
“Every game is a chance for us now because we are fighting for World Cup selection.
“From that point of view, individually and as a team we have to put our best foot forward because we want to be playing in the World Cup.”
One player who looks certain to be part of the World Cup squad is James Faulkner after his heroics with the bat at the Gabba on Friday night secured one of Australia’s greatest limited-overs wins.
With the short turnaround between games two and three, Haddin said Australia could use the momentum gained in Brisbane to wrap up the series in Sydney.
“Faulkner’s was an extraordinary effort,” Haddin said.
“He has got that competitive edge and you want him in your cricket team.
“England won’t be feeling good but that’s not for me to judge.
“We are enjoying the cricket we are playing at the moment. We have a chance to claim the series tomorrow and that’s what we are looking at.
“We are hoping after last night we can open a few more scars and finish it off in Sydney.
“It would be a massive achievement if we can do that.”