Cricket World Cup 2023: England restrict Australia in battle of Ashes foes

England restricted Australia to a modest total in a World Cup match of the Ashes foes in Ahmedabad on Saturday.

Australia were bowled out for 286 in 49.3 overs. Marnus Labuschagne top scored with 71, while Cameron Green made 47. Steve Smith scored 44, while Marcus Stoinis made 35.

Earlier, England skipper Jos Buttler won the toss and elected to bowl in their bid to salvage "some pride".

The defending champions are on the brink of elimination with five losses in six matches and a defeat in Ahmedabad would officially seal their exit.

England, who come in unchanged from their previous loss to India, could be eliminated from the World Cup even before their game ends if New Zealand beat Pakistan in an ongoing clash in Bengaluru.

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The team has a 2025 Champions Trophy berth to play for with the top seven teams from this World Cup getting an entry into the tournament where hosts Pakistan will have automatic qualification.

"Playing against Australia is always good, plenty to play for," Buttler said at the toss. "Some pride and there's a Champions Trophy place to secure."

England face an Australian team, placed third in the 10-team table, looking to boost their chances of a semifinal spot but without key players Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh.

Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green made the team in place of Maxwell and Marsh.

Skipper Pat Cummins said he would have batted first, "so not fussed about losing the toss".

"This clash always has a bit of spice, a great time to play them and I'm looking forward to the challenge," said Cummins.

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