Cook, Clarke play down pressure factor

The final chapter of the Ashes build-up ended in predictable fashion on Tuesday when opposing captains Alastair Cook and Michael Clarke played the straightest of bats ahead of the first test at Trent Bridge.

Australia skipper Clarke was more than happy to accept his team were underdogs going into the start of the five-match series on Wednesday while England leader Cook was confident his side would handle the pressure of being favourites.

“We have been favourites in other series as well and I think it sits well,” Cook told a packed news conference in the pavilion. “But cricket is not played on paper and it is all about delivering on the pitch.

“Australia are a very, very good side. They have some world-class players and I think there is going to be a very good standard of cricket in this series.

“We've always known it’s going to be one hell of a battle,” said Cook.

Australia's preparations have been far from ideal, with Darren Lehmann brought in as coach to replace the sacked Mickey Arthur just over two weeks ago.

“We come here as underdogs but that won't affect our performances,” Clarke said. “Darren and Mickey are two completely different people.

“Personally I have enjoyed talking cricket with ‘Boof’ (Lehmann) who I was lucky enough to play with. We are all embracing Darren's style now.”

Cook said the England players could not wait to begin their defence of the Ashes.

“Everyone is desperately excited to be here today after such a long build-up," he said. "There are a lot of nerves and excitement but it's important not to blow it out of all proportion.”

Clarke expressed surprise over England’s decision to promote youngster Joe Root to open the batting with Cook in preference to the more experienced Nick Compton. But Cook sounded optimistic about Root’s elevation to the top.

“Joe has handled himself in every situation fantastically well,” Cook said. “He has managed to change his style to every situation and is a fantastic young player.”

Both captains said they knew their starting XIs but did not give any clues. The pitch is expected to be dry and the weather conditions warm which might give the batsmen an advantage at a ground where swing bowlers usually perform well.

But Cook, leading England for the first time in an Ashes series, played down the significance of winning the toss.

“The toss is important but how you play is more important,” he said. “Our group of bowlers have the skills and experience to hold us in good stead in any conditions.”