England bowler James Anderson has said that he wants the forthcoming Ashes series against Australia to be played in the right spirit.
There have been some heated exchanges between English and Australian players over the past few years, including Anderson and Baggy Greens captain Michael Clarke during the last series Down Under.
Anderson hopes that the respectful behaviour that took place during the recent series with New Zealand will continue throughout the summer.
"I hope it's played in the same nature as the New Zealand series, that was a really positive series and the nature of both sides' cricket was helped by the spirit the game was played in," Anderson told Sky Sports News.
"[But] there's a different relationship between the two teams, The Ashes is a huge series for both sets of players.
"If there is needle, it's something I thought I thrived on or needed in the past but having played in the last few months, I think it's important we get the balance right of playing in the right spirit, but also having that competitive edge to win a game of cricket for your country."
The first Ashes Test begins in Cardiff on July 8.
Steven Toplis
