11 Jul 2015 | Cricket
Michael Clarke was quick to hail the tremendous Cardiff crowd and the Welsh support that the England side enjoyed, whilst also reflecting on substantial defeat for his side in the First Investec Ashes Test at The SSE SWALEC.
The people of Wales and Cardiff have been fantastic in their support, and the atmosphere has been great here. The Barmy Army have been loud and we could certainly hear them, Clarke said.
Australia were beaten in the evening sunshine on day four, as they slipped to a 169 run defeat. Beginning the day requiring 412 for victory, Australia lost wickets at regular intervals throughout day 4.
Steve Smith and Dave Warner combined in the morning session to put on 78 for the second wicket to give the visitors a solid start to their chase. But once Warner was dismissed LBW by Moeen Ali, Australia lost 6 wickets for just 54 runs. Aside from a spirited 77 from Mitchell Johnson, the rest of innings was a formality of regular wickets for a fit and firing England attack.
I can't fault the boys attitude in the lead up to this Test, but hopefully this defeat will be the kick up the backside they need, Clarke said
When you're in form you need to cash in and turn those thirties in much bigger scores, and ideally make a big hundred. When you're out of form, you need to work hard and scrap you're way through an innings.
It was clear that Mitchell Starc was struggling an injury throughout the match and Clarke confirmed this in the wake of the match.
Mitchell's injury did affect him, he wasn't able to open the bowling in the first innings. But, he still took wickets in that second innings, although it was more effective than pretty.
Australia now face tough choices in their selection and tactics ahead of Thursday's Second Test at Lord's.