'We've got a great tradition in World Cups' – Brad Haddin

Australia have experienced a surge in one-day international cricket over the past few months, and look prime for a good run in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019.

They've won each of their last eight ODIs, and will hope to build on that in their two warm-up matches, the first of which is against England. Normally, there's not much emphasis laid on warm-up games from a competitive point of view since their primary objective is to let teams make last minute tweaks, but when it comes to an England-Australia clash, no game is taken lightly, as Haddin – Australia's fielding coach – confirmed.

"You're starting to get really close to that first [World Cup] game now, so it's really important that we get into some really good habits," he said on Friday, 24 May. "And there's no better way to get that competitive edge than in a practice game against England.

"You can talk a lot about a practice game getting some miles in your legs, but once you walk across the line, pride takes over and you want to do well against England."

In a shift from the norm, Australia haven't been touted as one of the top contenders for the title this World Cup despite their recent upswing – England and India have been widely thought of as favourites. But the five-time winners have a great 'tradition' to draw inspiration from, said Haddin, who was the team's wicket-keeper in the victorious 2015 campaign at home.

"We've got a great tradition in World Cups, we've played a really attractive brand through these sort of tournaments and we know how to get ready for this. I think you'll see a pretty energetic and smiling Australian team."

One of the biggest positives for Australia recently is the return of Steve Smith and David Warner following their 12-month suspensions over the ball-tampering scandal in Newlands last year. Both players are seen as key to Australia's chances. Warner, in particular, comes into the tournament on back of great form in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League 2019. Haddin said the left-hander was as hungry as ever.

"I think Davey has come back in this team really, really hungry to perform at this level. He's had a long time out of the game. He's been great since he's come back into the group. David will bring the energy he always does."