Ponting ready for Malinga

Australia skipper Ricky Ponting expects a torrid time from paceman Lasith Malinga as his side go for a record third straight World Cup trophy win.

The reigning world champions face Sri Lanka in the final at the Kensington Oval on Saturday bidding to defend a 29-game unbeaten run.

Ponting said: "Malinga will be a key with the new ball - that sort of wicket will probably suit him as well with a bit of extra pace and good bounce."

He added: "Malinga's action is pretty unique and I've been doing a bit of top-up work on my skills. It's an attempt to get some sort of simulation about what you're going to come up against in the game.

"We haven't played a lot against Malinga, but we've all had a chance during this World Cup to have a good look at him and he's obviously done a good job for them.

"I watched him pretty closely against New Zealand the other day and he bowled very well with the new ball and had most of their top order batsmen in trouble."

Ponting stressed: "We've got to play well against him, but they have a number of really good bowlers who can be dangerous on their day and it's about us starting the game well.

"If we happen to bat first we certainly have to pay some attention to their opening attack and hopefully get through that new ball."