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Former New Zealand captain Martin Crowe has apologised for comments suggesting that Maoris (the original inhabitants of the country) lack the temperament for international cricket.
Crowe insisted he meant to praise New Zealand fast bowler Daryl Tuffey, the only player in the current Black Caps side of Maori parentage.
"The intention was to be positive about a young Maori bowler who I think has made a significant breakthrough," Crowe said.
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England paceman James Anderson admitted he struggled during an immaculate bowling spell that yielded the most economical figures against Australia in one-day internationals.
The opening bowler recorded figures of one for 12, the best for an Englishman since Ian Botham returned 2-12 against Pakistan in the 1992 World Cup.
His big-hearted showing was not enough to prevent an Aussie victory, but it helped England gain the bonus point they needed to secure passage to the finals.
"I am a bit tired and a bit dizzy and felt a bit ill towards the end of my spell," he said after bowling 10 overs on the trot in the searing heat of South Australia.
"I have been really happy with the way I have been bowling throughout the whole series."
Captain Nasser Hussain praised the 20-year-old. "For a young lad to come in against that sort of batting line-up and bowl five maidens in a row was brilliant," he said.
Shane Warne could return to the Australian one-day side for Thursday's final against England in Sydney.
Team physiotherapist Errol Alcott said Warne had told him he pulled up well from Sunday's bowling stint for Victoria in a one-dayer against Tasmania.
Alcott will examine Warne's shoulder and, provided there are no problems, he'll recommend the leg-spinner be available for selection.
Warne dislocated his shoulder last month in a one-dayer against England at the MCG.
The Australian team knows it must lift its game with exemplary player behaviour, according to one-day captain Ricky Ponting.
The topic was added to Monday's regular meeting between the Australian Cricket Board and the players after Darren Lehmann's five-game suspension on the weekend.
A board spokesman said a "discussion" took place on the issue during the meeting.
Lehmann suffered the ban because of a racist outburst just outside the Australian dressing room during last Wednesday's one-dayer against Sri Lanka in Brisbane.
"I suppose with Darren the other day it was something he probably regretted doing," Ponting said before the meeting.
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