Huge respect for Michael Clarke, that interview must have been very difficult for him. It's very sad to see a great player fading as he has - let's not forget that he will retire with an average just short of 50. I'd love to see him get a big score at the Oval and bow out in style.
Agree 100%. A great sportsman. I hope the unfettered Aussie press remember this when their team return home
I think the big difference now is the management have removed the 'fear factor' from the way we play, under Moores it was over-cautious and negative which clearly inhibited the players from expressing themselves, now there is none of that, they are told to be positive in every aspect of the game and it shows...
I think Farbrace has been instrumental in that change of mentality. Cook was quick to give Moores credit, though.
No chance. I was in Oz in 2010 when we were beating them. It was merciless and deeply personal abuse from the press. I think he'll have to wait a few years until they realise how good he is/was.
All very emotional from both Clarke and Cook, excellent interviews and very dignified and gracious in defeat from Clarke. Clarke was really left with no option but to fall on his sword, but once the pain of this series defeat subsides he will be able to look back on his excellent career with immense pride. I have to say that I'm really enjoying this new attacking style adopted by England recently, it's actually a pleasure watching them play these days.
Hardly believe it, never believed England were that bad, but never though the Aussies could be be that bad either
A selection of headlines in the Aussie press! please log in to view this image please log in to view this image please log in to view this image please log in to view this image I'm going to Melbourne in December to visit my sister so will enjoy talking about cricket during my stay Sorry, a few annoying poorly animated dancing things for good measure... and one more
You were hardly alone mate. I kid myself that I know a lot more about cricket than football, and I never saw anything like this happening. Even Cook said he didn't think this team were experienced or 'hardened' enough to win the series. I think the enthusiasm and attitude (as well as the performances) of Root, Stokes and Wood has made a real difference to team ethos. Cook has clearly liberated himself as a captain too. Any team with Moeen at number 8 has the chance to turn a poor innings into a half decent one. We still need to find an opener and a top class spinner though.
Someone in the England team management decided halfway thru the series to show some backbone and provide a lively pitch, then the English team back it up with some attacking bowling....... The rest is history. Any good team will always back themselves. Australian teams thrive on as such. That has always been the problem previously with England but not anymore.
