February 17, 2008	Sunday	Safar 09, 1429

ADELAIDE, Feb 16: After clinching their last match against Australia, India are expected to utilise express Brett Lee’s absence in the CB Series limited-overs game against the world champions at the Adelaide Oval here on Sunday.

Lee gets a well-merited rest after operating vigorously to establish himself as the hosts’ main bowler in the ongoing season, claiming 40 wickets in six Tests and besides pocketing eight in the triangular ODI tournament so far.

The breathtaking paceman’s absence could be a significant plus for India who have descended to the second spot after Australia’s big win against Sri Lanka in Perth on Friday.

After his splendid five-wicket haul in the CB series opener at the Gabba that wrecked the Indian top order, Lee took just one wicket in each of the next three games. However, he has created several problems for the batsmen.

Mitchell Johnson, who can expect to get the new ball from his skipper Ricky Ponting in Lee’s absence today, welcomed the move.

“Brett’s having a well-deserved rest. It’s very important. I had a break during the Twenty20 game against India earlier in the month, and understand that rest periods are very good for the bowlers,” Johnson said.

Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, on the other hand, believed the Australian bowling remains potent even without Lee.

“They are a good bowling side with or without Lee. They’ve the power to get batsmen out.”

He emphasised it was an important match, claiming India still had the edge after their five-wicket victory against Australia in Melbourne.

Dhoni based his viewpoint on the rapidly-improving performances of his batsmen and bowlers, saying: “The bowlers have taken up the responsibility and raised the level of their performance. Now the key is to be consistent.”

The batsmen haven’t always done the job, but Dhoni said he was prepared to stick with the out-of-form players particularly Yuvraj Singh.

Meanwhile, the Australian batting hasn’t been in top-notch form as well, and Johnson agreed that the middle order had to lift their game.

Against Sri Lanka in Perth, Australia were aiming for a big score at 3 for 171 with 14 overs to go, but eventually ended at a mere total of 236.

“We started off well but it’s just that middle period where we need to kick to on and score a few more runs and keep wickets in hand,” he said.

The Australians have an injury concern also with Michael Clarke remaining doubtful after suffering a rib injury when he was hit by a fast delivery from Lasith Malinga in Perth.

Australia have also called up David Hussey as a back-up. Hussey has been in fine touch this season, scoring 729 at 66.27 in the Pura Cup and 321 at 35.66 in domestic one-dayers. The only other change in the line-up will be Stuart Clark for Lee.—Agencies