Clarke: An honour to captain the Australian team
Australia's retiring captain Michael Clarke hailed his team's 'grit and 'fighting spirit' after they recorded a consolation victory in the fifth and final Test at the Oval on Sunday.
Clarke's team beat England by an innings and 46 runs just after lunch on the fourth day but it was to late as the home side already won the Ashes urn back having been three-one up before the Oval Test.
The 34 year-old Clarke and opening batsman Chris Rogers at least got a winning send-off after both announced that they would be retiring after the series in England.
Clarke said after the match: "The way the boys played in this test match was a reward for all the hard work we have put in on this tour. We showed, grit and fighting spirit and the Australian brand of cricket we want to play.
"England deserve a lot of credit for the way they played and they thoroughly deserve to win the series but it has been a privilege and an honour to captain the Australian team.
"I've been really lucky to play with some fantastic players who have given everything for the team and Chris is definitely one of those.
"It doesn't matter whether you play one Test or 100 Tests for Australia. You cherish every single one. You never want to say goodbye, but for us two old boys, our time is up.
"I have been really lucky to have played with some fantastic players. I have enjoyed every minute."
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