Michael Clarke expects Ashes to be played in right spirit
Monday 22 June 2015 15:35, UK
Australia will not "overstep the line" during this summer’s Ashes series, according to their captain Michael Clarke.
In his first press conference since his side arrived in the UK on Wednesday, Clarke said he is confident the series will be played in the right spirit and that any 'sledging' will remain within bounds.
"I know I probably say this every series, but we respect there's a line you can't cross," said Clarke.
"Both teams might 'head-butt' that line, but I'm confident we won't overstep the mark.
“I think that’s how we play our best. I think it’s a big part of the Australian way, but I think you also need to keep in mind there’s a line and not overstep that.”
Recent Ashes series have not gone by without their fair share of unsavoury incidents, most notably when Clarke told England’s talismanic fast bowler James Anderson to get ready for a broken arm during Australia’s 5-0 home Ashes win in 2013/14.
“As captain I'll make sure I lead the way on that front, and I’m sure the boys will certainly follow,” Clarke added.
The Australian skipper was cautious when questioned about former England off-spinner Graeme Swann’s comments as to whether in-form batsman Steve Smith’s unorthodox technique can succeed in the Ashes if the ball swings.
”We’ll find out in five Test matches’ time if Steve Smith’s good enough to have success over here,” Clarke said after admitting he thought Swann was probably just trying to get under the skin of a few of his players.
Smith boasts an excellent average of over 56 and comes to England off the back of 199 and 54 not out in his last Test match against West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica and is currently top of the world Test batting rankings.
Australia have not won an Ashes series in the UK since 2001 and Clarke knows that preventing another defeat will be a "really tough challenge".
"The fact that we haven't had much success in this country, I think that's a real driving force and makes you really hungry," Clarke said.
Australia have two tour matches against Essex and Kent before the first Ashes Test gets under way in Cardiff on Wednesday July 8 and every ball is live on Sky Sports.
