Andrew Strauss reflects on 'bitter' defeat as England lose sixth ODI against Australia by two wickets

"And 333 is a good score on any ground. It was a good wicket but obviously we were not helped by Paul Collingwood not being able to bowl.

"We let them get off to far too fast a start and they were able to keep up the rate. It was very, very disappointing we were unable to restrict them to less than 333. But all credit to the way they played. In the end they walked out worthy winners."

As for Collingwood's situation, Strauss said: "He's okay. He had a back spasm so hopefully should recover fairly quickly. Otherwise, the rest of us got through the game okay."

England's one-day form ahead of the World Cup gives cause for concern, however. The team has been weakened by a rash of injury setbacks, with bowlers Graeme Swann, Tim Bresnan and Ajmal Shahzad all currently injured.

They should all return for the tournament on the subcontinent, starting next month, which will afford England the chance to field a stronger bowling line-up.

"I think in the World Cup we'll have to think about what the best balance is," Strauss said. "We thought this was the best balance to win this game of cricket.

"And when you score 333 that should be enough but all credit to how Australia played."

Strauss suggested the series against Australia has provided few pointers for how England should line up at the World Cup.

"It hasn't really because we've had lots of injuries and haven't been able to play our best side. That was the same for Australia as well.

"I think we've got a lot of talent in our one-day squad and I think we can do a lot of good things in the World Cup."

Trott had reason to see the match in more of a bittersweet light.

"Obviously it's nice to get a hundred," Trott said. "But it's more memorable when you win the game.

"Unfortunately we couldn't come away with a win today. You'd take 333 at the beginning of the day if you were given that."

Australia captain Michael Clarke showed the way with an impressive 82 in front of his home Sydney crowd.

"I thought we batted really well," Clarke said. "I did think 333 was going to be tough to get."

Clarke promoted Mitchell Johnson to bat at No 4 and was rewarded as the paceman scored a rapid 57.

"We had to take a few risks. I guess I punted on Mitch going up the order and trying to smack a few and he batted really well," Clarke said.

"He strikes a ball as clean as anyone and he's shown again tonight that when he gets his opportunity he's not only a very good bowler, he can do some damage with the bat as well.

"To be able to come out and chase those runs, I'm stoked with that win."

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