The Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting has been rushed back early from a two game rest for today's clash against New Zealand in Sydney.
The home side need to win the third Chappell-Hadlee match to keep the five match series alive.
The Australian coach Tim Neilsen says the state of the series had forced their hand.
He says Ponting brings a steel and a determination and an understanding to the game that maybe the young guys don't have at this level, so it is great to have Punter back.
Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said Ponting's return was no reflection on Michael Clarke's captaincy skills.
If Australia lose the third one-day it will be their sixth loss in a row.
