Smith excited by squad’s prospects

There is a feeling in the Australia Test squad that a bright new era is dawning after their victory in Adelaide snapped a five-match losing streak.

The team that defeated the Proteas in Adelaide was much-changed from the side that performed so dismally in Hobart and skipper Steve Smith is confident they will brin in a new era.

Smith told AAP:”Last week was great. The guys responded beautifully, a new team together, to play the way we did against a quality opposition was incredibly pleasing.

“It’s probably a little bit harder now than it was back in the ’80s. The demands of international cricket are probably a little bit different with all three formats of crickets and lots of cricket going on.

1022.6666666666666x767__origin__0x0_Matthew_Wade1

“But you have to give guys opportunities and see how they go. I guess we’ll be trying to stick together for a while.

“The great thing about this team that played last week is they’re all so young.

“Obviously you’ve got to continue to perform.

“But if they can continue to do that, there’s no reason why we can’t play together for the next five to 10 years and create something really special together.”

Smith would not confirm what the thinking was regarding the return of injured opener Shaun Marsh but felt his form was such that he would have to be considered.

He added: “Shaun was batting beautifully before he got injured so he’ll definitely be talked about.”

Australia face New Zealand in a three match ODI series before taking on Pakistan in the game’s longest format.

Latest