London: The International Cricket Council has defended the timing of Australia's final two World Cup pool matches, which will leave rusted-on supporters with little choice other than to become night owls.

The power of the subcontinent has meant Australia's surge towards the knockout stages, which continues against New Zealand at Lord's on Saturday night and the following Saturday against South Africa in Manchester, will be all-night affairs for those watching in Australia.

Australia's next two World Cup matches have scheduled start times of 10.30pm AEST. Credit:AP

Despite the rich World Cup history between Australia, the Black Caps and Proteas, the two matches are day-night games, beginning at 1.30pm local time, but at 10.30pm on the Australian eastern seaboard.

There have been two matches held on Saturdays through this tournament. The earlier match this weekend, beginning 10.30am locally (7.30pm AEST), will be Pakistan facing Afghanistan at Headingley, while on Saturday week the earlier game has mighty India taking on Sri Lanka at Headingley.