England fought well, says Steve Smith after 4-0 rout
SYDNEY: Australia captain Steve Smith praised his team for an “outstanding” Ashes, lauding the all-round contribution in the 4-0 series win over England. A win by an innings and 123 runs in the final Test in Sydney on Monday saw the hosts seal an emphatic series victory. Pat Cu mm ins was the leading wicket-taker of the series with 23, but the rest of Australia’s attack – Mitchell Starc (22), Josh Hazlewood (21) and Nathan Lyon (21)–all managed to take more than 20 wickets.
Smith, who won the Compton-Miller Medal as the player of the series, hailed his team for their performances. “It’s been a great couple of months. I think the cricket that we’ ve played over the last couple of months has been outstanding,” he said.
“I saw something come up whilst we were out in the field yesterday and all the bowlers have taken over 20 wickets, so we haven’ t just relied on one person.
“All the guys have been there and done the job and shared it around which has been outstanding and obviously scoring big runs in the first innings has been key for us. Batters have stood up and got through difficult periods and just won those key moments which has been crucial in this series.”
While the series score was onesided, England had opportunities throughout their campaign. Smith said his side’s ability to deliver in crucial stages had proven the difference between the teams. “I think England had their foot in the door in probably all of the Test matches,” he said.
“They’ve played some exceptional cricket and we’ ve just been able to get on top and win those key moments and not let them back in the game which has been crucial. I think it’s a load of different-things–belief, playing here at home, just knowing our roles and getting the job done.
“It’s been a really exciting series and we’ve played some really good cricket which has been the most important thing.”
NO NEED FOR UPHEAVAL
James Anderson said there is no need for a “big upheaval” following England’s Ashes drubbing and plans to play a key role in trying to re gain the urn from Australia next year. Anderson does not feel drastic measures should be taken despite such a chastening beating .“We have improved over the last 18 months. We’ve definitely made strides in the right direction,” said the seamer.
“It doesn’t feel like a series where it should be a big upheaval. We’ ve actually played some good cricket. We’ve not been blown away in every game. Every game has gone to fifth day.”