England don’t have edge, says Michael Clarke

Michael Clarke says England's resounding victory in the final of the World Twenty20 won't give them a psychological edge against Australia in the Ashes next winter.

England beat Australia by seven wickets in Bridgetown on Sunday but Twenty20 skipper Clarke insists it will have little impact on the outcome when they travel Down Under to defend the Ashes.

"It always hurts losing to England but there's a lot of guys from both teams that won't take part in the Ashes series," Clarke said. "They will take confidence but I can guarantee you the way we've been playing, especially in Test and
one-day cricket, we're confident.

"We've got a lot of talent and we'll be ready to go."

Clarke was impressed with the performance of Steve Smith in the Caribbean and the young New South Wales all-rounder is putting his case forward for selection in the Test side alongside current spinner Nathan Hauritz.

Clarke added: "Nathan has done a wonderful job but Steve Smith has got an opportunity in Twenty20 cricket and made the most of it."