Paine happy to set aside rivalry with post-Ashes beer

Will Ford
Tim-Paine-Joe-Root-

Australia captain Tim Paine was happy to share a beer with England’s players after a fiercely-contested Ashes series ended level at 2-2.

Tension between the two teams ramped up over the course of the final two Tests before the hosts sealed a 135-run win at The Oval to deny the tourists a first outright victory on these shores since 2001.

Australian centurion Matthew Wade and England paceman Jofra Archer engaged in a competitive tussle on Sunday, while on Saturday the stump microphone picked up attempts to wind up Ben Stokes by relating to his acquittal on charges of affray last year.

Steve Smith had previously denied mocking England spinner Jack Leach as Australia celebrated their win in last week’s meeting at Old Trafford.

READ: Bayliss admits Australia would tempt him back to international cricket

Asked if the rival teams would socialise over drinks, Paine replied: “We’ll head in there at some stage tonight and have a beer.

“I think today was played in a really good competitive spirit, there was plenty on the line for a number of people.

“I thought both teams handled it and acquitted themselves really well again.

“I’m sure the crowd enjoyed today’s cricket.”