"It was pretty good but we didn't bat as well as we could -- we got off to a good start but lost our way in the middle," Ponting explained.

The hosts expect Brett Lee (chest infection) and Glenn McGrath (groin) to face England next Friday.

"We'll play our best team in the next game and go from there," said Ponting.

"We don't want to be tinkering with our team too much, especially when there's a finals series coming up."

On his home ground, Ponting was impressed by the display of fellow Tasmanian Ben Hilfenhaus, who took a wicket with his 12 delivery on his ODI debut.

However, Hilfenhaus may have to drop out of the squad with the veteran pacemen returning.

"It was very good. He got that early wicket, which was great for his confidence.

"I've known for the last couple of years he would do well when he got his opportunity. He will keep improving and be a good bowler for Australia for a long time.

"Brett will probably come back on Friday. It would be nice to keep Ben around the squad but whether that will happen I don't know."