It's an amazing experience to win Ashes: Steve Smith

Australian captain Steve Smith reflected on an amazing experience, as Australia regained the Ashes by going 3-0 up in Perth. Smith has set his sights on inflicting England's third whitewash in 11 years. After a delayed start due to damp patches on the pitch and heavy showers yesterday, the victory was sealed moments before tea, when Pat Cummins removed Chris Woakes to secure an innings and 41-run win. Smith, who was named Man of the Match, made a huge contribution, with a career-best 239, while Josh Hazlewood claimed a five-wicket haul on the final day to dismantle England's second innings.

Australia's Steve Smith celebrates after scoring a century during the third day of their Ashes cricket test match against England in Perth, Australia, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017. Pic/AP/PTI

Speaking at a press conference Smith said, "Captaining an Ashes winning side is an amazing feeling. It's a moment we've been looking forward to. The way we've gone about it was spectacular. 400 is a pretty good total, but we came out and got a massive score. We only had to bat once." "I'm just so proud of the boys, the way we've been able to wrap things up in Perth and get that urn back. The boys have done a terrific job to get 20 wickets, we've needed in each game. We haven't won a toss and have probably had the toughest of the conditions. I'm just so proud of everyone", added Smith. "We'll celebrate this one first, have a good time tonight, and then get to Melbourne, which is an amazing occasion. Hopefully we can make it 4-0 and then maybe 5-0 in Sydney. It's been an amazing couple of weeks", said Smith.

Smith gave a nod to Australia's selectors, who took some big decisions before the series. They dropped Matt Renshaw in favour of Cameron Bancroft and recalled Tim Paine as the wicketkeeper. For the Perth Test, the selectors omitted Peter Handscomb and his replacement Mitchell Marsh made a career-best 181. Smith also lauded on his pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazelwood and Pat Cummins, and calling them "superstars". He also highlighted the role played by spinner Nathan Lyon, who claimed 14 wickets and provided exceptional control and support to the team.

Australia, who have now taken an unassailable 3-0 lead in the Ashes series against England, will now play the inconsequential fourth Test, beginning on Boxing Day (December 26) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

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