Cricket: Black Caps do their research

The Black Caps can do some research today as the last big one day tournament before the cricket World Cup begins.

Australia is out to inflict more humiliation on England at Melbourne's MCG, after the Ashes and Twenty20 hidings.

However wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist says concentrated one-day play is welcomed, considering the Caribbean tournament coming up.

Gilchrist says the first few games are crucial for the whole squad, so they can find their World Cup balance.

He also says in the 30th edition of the tournament they want to carry on their dominance.

Australia has won 18 of the 29 tri-series since its inception and is going for five in a row.

Last time New Zealand was involved they did not even make the finals with South Africa winning in 2002.

Play gets underway at 4:30pm.

- NEWSTALK ZB