Published: Aug 23, 2015, 11:58 PM (IST)
Edited: Aug 23, 2015, 11:58 PM (IST)
Michael Clarke chose to stick to chatting about the Ashes series and the match just culminated, only lightly absorbing the attention on his departure from his international career, in the post-match presentation following Australia’s innings and 46 run victory in the final Ashes Test at The Oval. He had spoken about putting up a performance of grit and determination in this final Test, after conceding the trophy with their third loss at Trent Bridge. His players were determined to give him a successful send-off, with an all-round performance that saw them thrash the hosts.
“After the last Test, couldn’t have gone any better, the hard work the guys have put in. Credit to Alastair and his team, they’ve deserved the win but we’re glad to have come out in this match and put in a performance. We’re disappointed with how the series went but we came out and showed some of our best,” Clarke said. READ: Michael Clarke the best Australian captain since Mark Taylor: Shane Warne
The crowd was cognisant and appreciative of his international and Test career. Clarke, who scored 132 runs in nine innings in the series, cracked a joke about it. READ: Michael Clarke, Chris Rogers given guard of honour during 5th Ashes 2015 Test by Australian team
“They used to boo me but I haven’t been scoring any runs. The fans are such a great part of playing this game. Probably my favourite tour was in 2005, it introduced me to how tough it is. I’ve had a wonderful time touring here, hopefully I can now come back and have a holiday.” READ: Sachin Tendulkar wishes Michael Clarke on his brilliant cricketing career
The 11-year journey had seen him witness changes of guards and ends of eras. This was what he opted to say as he parted: “I came into a great Australian team. [In] my first 20 or 30 Test matches, those guys mentored me and hopefully I’ve managed to pass some of that on. Enjoy every single moment, I’m blessed to have played for Australia as much as I have, it’s an honour to captain your country. But this isn’t my stage, congratulations to Alastair and the England team.”
