Vaughan's likely return boosts England spirits

SYDNEY, Feb 5 (Reuters) The likely return of captain Michael Vaughan has provided England with another timely boost before tomorrow's must-win tri-series one-day international against New Zealand in Brisbane.

Vaughan has been sidelined by a hamstring injury for three weeks but is expected to resume playing after completing a full training session at the Gabba today.

''Fitness-wise, he did everything that was asked of him today,'' England batsman Andrew Strauss told reporters.

''He looked good in practice and can't see any reason why he will not play tomorrow.

''His experience and talent is what we need heading into such an important match as this.'' Vaughan's return could not come at a better time for England, who need to beat New Zealand to join Australia in the best-of-three finals series.

England had lost their last two games against the Kiwis but stayed in the hunt for a place in the finals with a surprise 92-run thumping of Australia in Sydney on Friday.

The English had not beaten the Australians in any form of the game on their dismal tour but Strauss the result had given the team the confidence to end their losing streak against New Zealand.

''The win over Australia the other day was much overdue and has made a massive difference to us,'' Strauss said.

''There is a real buoyancy about the guys at the moment and we have a very good chance of winning this game tomorrow.

''Against Australia we showed that if we stick to our game plan we can beat the best and that is a pretty good state of mind to be in.

''Getting to the finals will mean we have beaten Australia and New Zealand consecutively in the one week and if we do that we will be extremely confident about the prospect of ending this tournament on a real high.'' REUTERSDH ND1226