We’ve got to bat better, says Aussie coach

Darren Lehmann has demanded his batsmen improve ahead of the Second Test, which begins at Lord’s on Thursday.

The tourists fell agonisingly short of snatching victory at Trent Bridge despite twice relying on the tail after the top order failed to deliver.

New coach Lehmann was honest in his assessment of his team’s shortcomings.

He said: “I just thought we missed a chance probably in the first innings with our top order.

“Our tail has done really well over a period of time now but it’s time for the batters to make sure they’re making the runs.”

Australia recovered from 117 for nine to take a first-innings lead thanks to 19-year-old debutant Ashton Agar’s record-breaking 98, and Lehmann (above) understandably wants more from his batsmen.

Lehmann, who replaced Mickey Arthur as coach just 16 days before the Ashes began, believes England’s slender margin of victory highlights the similarities between the two old rivals.

“I think they’re quite close — a lot closer than people give them credit for,” said Lehmann.

“So the key for us is to make sure we’re playing better.”

Lehmann was keen to draw a line under Stuart Broad’s controversial decision not to walk despite clearly edging a catch to Michael Clarke at slip during a crucial second innings parternship with Ian Bell.