Clarke: We have to work hard at Lord’s
Australia captain Michael Clarke appeared slightly shell-shocked after his side's comprehensive defeat to England in the first Ashes Test in Cardiff, saying his lads will have plenty to do ahead of the Lord's Test.
Australia lost all 10 wicket on day four, losing the game by 169 runs and win more than a day to go, and Clarke was honest when he said that England outplayed them with bat, ball, and in the field.
A disappointed Clarke said after the match: "Cut a long story short, we were outplayed in all three facets of the game. England were exceptional. We have work to do. England deserve a lot of credit.
"We looked to play positive, but whatever we tried didn't work. When you get in, you have to cash in. I'm extremely excited that we have to play better at Lord's. We just haven't played our best cricket."
One big concern for the Aussies is the fitness of fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who has been their danger man in all formats this year and bagged a five-fer in the first innings.
He appeared to struggle with his ankle on day three, prompting speculation that the bone spur problem that required surgery in 2013 was back. But Clarke seemed positive about his paceman's chances for 16 July.
The skipper added: "He was able to bowl and get through, so that's a positive, hopefully he will be available for Lord's."
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