The Aussies' clash with England on Thursday will be one of the biggest in the arch-rivals' limited-overs history, but Australia's preparation has not been ideal.

Saturday's loss to South Africa forced them out of Manchester and a date with New Zealand and into an unwanted trip to Birmingham to face the pre-tournament favourites.

Four members of Australia's original squad have required scans in the space of four days, with two ruled out and another's campaign in the balance.

Usman Khawaja on Sunday followed Shaun Marsh out of the tournament, with his injured hamstring forcing Matthew Wade to be called up.

More time will be given to Marcus Stoinis' side strain, as Mitch Marsh waits in the wings.

The defending champions also have history against them, with no team having won the title after entering the knockout stage of the tournament off a loss.

But Justin Langer said his team was well equipped to overcome such dramas, after they spent a year emerging from the ball-tampering crisis.

"We have built that (resilience) up over the last 12 or 14 months," Langer said.

"I reckon the last 12 months have allowed us to build up a bit of resilience and a bit of fight. And a bit of character."

Langer possessed that kind of resilience throughout his own career and has tried to impose it on his players.

Ricky Ponting is also part of the coaching staff, having played a part in two of Australia's best backs-to-the-walls World Cup wins.

He played in England in 1999 where Australia survived seven sudden-death games, and led the 2003 victory when Shane Warne was banned on tournament eve.

"Of course (the injuries) are frustrating," Langer said.

"But it's also the business we're in. That's sport. And all the teams have had injuries.

"We've dealt with it for the past 12 months in all circumstances and as disappointing as it is for the boys and team, we'll keep dealing with it."

Australia will have until Thursday to decide whether to bring Peter Handscomb or Wade into the starting XI in place of Khawaja.

Handscomb could be considered better placed to deal with spin given England's preference for it through the middle.

Wade, meanwhile, could offer the explosive power Australia need given England's game is built around high-scoring affairs.

"Matthew Wade has played a lot of international cricket if he comes in," Langer said.

"There's a real upside to him and he is in no doubt career-best form.

"Pete Handscomb a few months ago helped us beat India 3-2 in India in their conditions and then 5-0 against Pakistan in the UAE.

"His temperament is excellent for it."

Australian Associated Press