Date:21/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/21/stories/2008052160021800.htm

Sport - Cricket

ODIs replace tri-series: CA

Melbourne: Australia’s traditional one-day international triangular series has been replaced by two five-match series, with the host featuring in every match, according to the 2008-09 fixtures announced by the Cricket Australia.

The tri-series was terminated because of its lengthy schedule which would wither the spectator’s interest if Australia was not doing well. India had defeated Australia in the last edition of the tournament earlier this year.

Australia will play two separate five-match Commonwealth Bank Series, the first against World No.1-ranked South Africa throughout January and the second a traditional Trans Tasman battle against New Zealand for the Chappell Hadlee Trophy during February, a CA statement said on Tuesday.

“A new look ODI format now features Australia in every Commonwealth Bank Series match,” said CA Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland. — PTI