Sutherland praises Clarke, backs Lehmann

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland has emphatically stated that Darren Lehmann's position as Australian coach is safe.

Speaking in Melbourne the morning after Australia's relinquished the Ashes at Trent Bridge, Sutherland was asked if Lehmann was "safe" and responded with an emphatic "yes."

Sutherland also paid tribute to the career of retiring Australian captain Michael Clarke.

Sutherland stated that losing the Ashes was not a fitting reward for what Clarke gave to Australian cricket, but said he would be remembered as one of the nation's best.

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He labelled Clarke a "hero to a generation" of young Australians.

"He will be remembered for his courage and the way he played the game," Sutherland said.

"I don't think I can think of an Australian cricketer that has worked harder to put his best on the field, day after day, week after week.

"He finished on his terms and this (retirement) is a small moment in a great career.

"I wasn't surprised at his decision, understanding the pressure he was under.

"He is making the decision that the time is right and his judgment is appropriate."

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Sutherland gave Steve Smith a strong endorsement to become Australia's next Test captain, although a decision on Clarke's successor is yet to be ratified by the Cricket Australia Board.

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"We have someone in waiting who has had experience as a captain," Sutherland said of Smith.

"In recent months he has been rated as the best Test cricketer in the world. Steven is ready for this challenge but no one is ready-made to just walk into it."

Sutherland said the reasons for Australia's Ashes loss would be analysed in a review that is always conducted following a series.

"After every series we will sit down and review, and I think there is an opportunity for a reflection on (our) style of play," Sutherland said.

"It's not easy playing away but it's something we have to get better at. We want to be the best cricket team in the world and to do that we have to be better at playing away."

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