Darren Lehmann insisted it was still possible for Australia to win the Ashes despite the upheaval that led to his appointment as the new head coach of the national side.
Lehmann was brought in after South African Mickey Arthur, the first non-Australian to coach the team, was sensationally sacked 16 days before the first Test in Nottingham after several high-profile on and off-field embarrassments for the team.
But despite everything that has happened in recent weeks, Lehmann — who took charge with immediate effect ahead of the tour match against Somerset —was in bullish mood when asked if Australia could still regain the Ashes.
“Yes definitely, It is a challenge for all the playing group and everyone involved with Cricket Australia.
“We are going to play an aggressive brand of cricket that entertains people and fans and gets the job done on and off the field.
“I am excited by the challenge.”
Lehmann said he was keen to join forces with Australia captain and star batsman Michael Clarke, currently sidelined by a back injury.
“I am looking forward to working with Michael closely,” said Lehmann.
Earlier CA chief executive James Sutherland praised Lehmann, appointed on a two-year deal, as the “obvious choice to replace Mickey”.
Meanwhile, Australia are shelving their controversial rotation policy for Ashes campaign that are in danger of falling into complete disarray. Described as “informed player management”by national selector John Inverarity, the policy designed to safeguard key players from burn-out has drawn heavy criticism from the media and a number of former internationals.