Cricket Australia to review Ashes debacle, no threat to Darren Lehmann’s position

He will play the final Test at The Oval on August 20 before the curtain comes down on a distinguished career.

“I’d love to play at The Oval because it will be a joyous, celebratory occasion and I’ll do everything to try to get fit”, he said.

England’s all-time leading wicket-taker had to miss the fourth Investec Test at Trent Bridge because of the side strain he suffered in the third match at Edgbaston.

Australia cricket coach Darren Lehmann said on Sunday that he is ready to rebuild the side around Smith after admitting the Ashes loss in England marked the end of an era. “We just didn’t adjust to the conditions at all”, rued Hogg, before adding, “Australia would have gone there thinking they were well-prepared but they would be leaving this series feeling disappointed”. “But whether they would do any better against the moving ball than what we’ve seen lately – you wouldn’t want to be betting your house on it”. “I don’t think I can think of an Australian cricketer that has worked harder, day after day, week after week”.

Lehmann said he was expecting a “smooth transition” from Clarke as captain to Steve Smith, provided he is endorsed for the role by the Cricket Australia board as required, and that it would not hinder Smith’s batting.

Losing the coveted urn to arch-rivals England is depressing enough in cricket-mad Australia, but the manner of the team’s capitulation after entering the series favourites and pumped-up with confidence has prompted criticism from all quarters.

The 34-year-old made the announcement on the pitch at Nottingham a few minutes after Durham paceman Mark Wood sealed England’s series-clinching victory by an innings and 78 runs by bowling last man Nathan Lyon off his inside edge.

Ponting relinquished the captaincy to Clarke in 2011 but continued to play for Australia until late 2012. “Nobody is putting up their hand – the reason Voges got his opportunity at the latter part of his career was that he scored more runs back home than younger guys and deserved his chance”, the spearhead said.

“I think it’s going to be a great last Test match”.

“I’ve certainly got faith in him”.

England coach Bayliss handed Smith his first leadership post of note, when the fresh-faced star took control of T20 franchise Sydney Sixers.

Lehmann also offered a glowing tribute to Clarke, though admitted surprise at his decision to walk away.