Steve Smith says he is in the Aussie team to have some fun and make others have fun as well. In the end though, the prodigal batsman knows that runs is what will count for the most.

The question that most experts and fans are asking ahead of the Ashes is if England can match the aggression of Australia and will they have to if they are to win the series.

David Warner had made unwanted headlines in June 2013 following what the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) described as an "unprovoked physical attack" on Yorkshire batsman Joe Root.

Steve Smith has the runs and reputation to become England's No. 1 enemy in The Ashes. And while acknowledging the prowess of enemies in The Ashes is like waving the white flag, Steve Smith is determined to silence the Three Lions and walk away with the biggest prize of the hunt - respect.

Lalit Modi had alleged that three Chennai Super Kings players had taken bribes during IPL 2013 and had written an e-mail to the ICC about the same.

Retiring paceman is known as Rhino but there was a delicacy in those fingers behind the seam which ensured that the ball swung late. Harris remains the embodiment of a true Aussie cricketer

Having been bowled out for 278 in the first innings, Sri Lanka hit back to reduce Pakistan to 209-9 by stumps on the second day. Nuwan Pradeep, Dhammika Prasad bagged three wickets each.

Ryan Harris, who announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, took 113 wickets in 27 Tests after only making his debut in 2010 at the age of 30.