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."
Latest
-
NewsEngland still among T20 World Cup favourites without Stokes and Archer – Buttler
When England landed the 50-over crown at in 2019, Buttler, Stokes and Archer were the men who delivered for their country when the pressure was on.
-
NewsThis winter’s Ashes series will go ahead, says Australia captain Tim Paine
Joe Root has refused to fully commit to the tour, with the first Test scheduled for December 8.
-
NewsWarwickshire land glorious domestic double with Bob Willis Trophy win
Bears see of Lancashire with ease.
-
NewsIreland batter Paul Stirling cannot wait for the Men’s T20 World Cup
The explosive opener is excited for Ireland to once more test themselves against the best.
-
NewsEngland’s postponed tour of Holland rearranged for next June
England last faced the Dutch during the 2014 World Cup where they suffered a shock defeat.
-
NewsWill Rhodes and Rob Yates hit centuries as Warwickshire dominate Lancashire
Matt Parkinson was rewarded for his toil on a placid pitch with three wickets.
-
NewsJos Buttler against going to Australia without family as he awaits Ashes clarity
Buttler is preparing to fly to the United Arab Emirates next week for the Twenty20 World Cup.
-
NewsECB is braced for ‘more challenging discussions’ over Ashes tour
ECB chair Ian Watmore admitted there are more hurdles to be cleared after last week receiving the latest update from Cricket Australia.
-
NewsWarwickshire dominate first day at Lord’s as Lancashire collapse
Craig Miles took five wickets and the Red Rose were 12 for six before reaching 78, with the Bears 120 without loss in reply.
-
NewsJoe Root ‘desperate’ to play in Ashes but admits he is unable to commit yet
Root and his England team-mates are still in the dark about the exact conditions of entry into Australia.