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.
