Aussies confident

The Australians landed here after their Emirates flight was delayed due to early morning fog. The delay was further compounded when airport authorities refused to allow the cricketers to pass through with some video cassettes.

Waugh, who took over from Test captain Mark Taylor after India won the three match Test series 2-1, was among the last ones to leave the customs. He admitted the team has had too much cricket in recent months.

“But playing so much has brought the team together and more importantly we have struck the winning note and that too in the final,” Waugh said.

The Aussiecaptain said the team will be trying to get as much rest as possible before they take on New Zealand in their first day/night match on Saturday.

“We will be resting today and tomorrow. We will come to the nets only on Friday. I don’t think we need the cricket right now. But we do need the rest,” Waugh added.

Team manager Steve Bernard too struck the same note stating the boys were tired after such a demanding tour. “We are happy we won and we will definitely be looking forward to another victory in Sharjan,” he said.

Meanwhile, one of the surprises in Dubai was spinner Shane Warne, whose possible replacement, all-rounder Ian Harvey arrived yesterday.

“The tour has been long and hard. There has been the normal physical wear and tear of the players. So any extra help will be most welcome,” Bernard said.

Harvey, holidaying in Maldives, was called up as standby for the team plagued by injuries to Warne (shoulder ligament) and Tom Moody, (hamstring).

The Aussies have placed South Australianspinner Brad Young on standby to play if need be.