Advertisement

Steve Smith wishes retiring team-mates Michael Clarke, Chris Rogers

Australia's new Test captain Steven Smith on Tuesday congratulated his predecessor Michael Clarke and Chris Rogers who wound up the clock on their respective careers after the recently concluded Ashes series.

Steve Smith wishes retiring team-mates Michael Clarke, Chris Rogers

New Delhi: Australia's new Test captain Steven Smith on Tuesday congratulated his predecessor Michael Clarke and Chris Rogers who wound up the clock on their respective careers after the recently concluded Ashes series.

Smith, who slammed two tons in a series where most of the Aussies struggled with the bat, said that it was a pleasure for him to play under Clarke.

Clarke, who had been struggling to lead from the front of late, announced his decision to retire from international cricket after meekily surrendering the fourth Test to Alastair Cook & Co by an innings and 78 runs which also gave them the series. His team-mates made sure that Pup departed on a winning note as Australia won the final Test by an innings and 48 runs.

Smith also congratulated veteran southpaw Rogers, who though entered the squad quite late, but played a significant role for the Aussies in the last few years at the top of the order.

While Smith will be leading Australia in all formats from now, flamboyant left-hander David Warner was named as his deputy in Tests.