Follow the women’s lead

THE Ashes-retaining feats of Australia’s women should inspire their male counterparts, says Test great Michael Clarke.

The men’s series starts tomorow, two days after the women’s multi-format competition concluded.

Australia have already retained the Ashes by virtue of holding an 8-6 lead going into last night’s final T20 game.

Clarke feels the success enjoyed by the women has helped generate additional enthusiasm heading into the male component of cricket’s Anglo-Australian rivalry.

“The girls have done a wonderful job and deserve a lot of credit,” he said. “I’d imagine you take confidence as a team when you look at the women’s team having success.”