McGrath backs Steven Smith to continue aggressive cricket

Sydney, Jan 3 (IANS) Pace bowling great Glenn McGrath, on Saturday, voiced his faith in the new captain Steven Smith continuing Australia's tradition of playing an "attacking brand" of cricket.

"We've been spoilt here in Australia with the attacking brand of cricket we play," McGrath was quoted as saying by news.com.au Saturday.

Smith was called upon to take a tough call on a declaration on the final day of the third Test at Melbourne.

Australia batted till lunch on the fifth day to set India an improbable 284-run target in 70 overs. India lost six wickets in the run chase but held on to force a draw, leaving Australia questioning the timing of the declaration.

Smith was criticised for delaying the declaration that prevented Australia from winning the third consecutive Test in the four-match series.

McGrath said Smith will reveal a more aggressive edge if he's faced with another tough call on declaration in the fourth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), starting Tuesday.

"I look at the declaration on that last day, to get a series win is still something pretty big. We shouldn't lose sight of that," the retired legend said.

"The boys were still playing for a win. We had our chances on that last day. It was a very flat wicket.

"But if there's a similar situation in this Test match, you'll see Steve go a little bit harder."