Weak county system to blame for England's failure, says Gooch

Gooch, England's all-time leading Test run-scorer, said the English county system must get stronger to end Australia's Ashes domination.

Australia clinched their sixth consecutive Ashes series here on Tuesday with a 98-run victory in the fifth Test that gave Mark Taylor's team a 3-1 series triumph.

``Our domestic system has to be much stronger and leaner and have only the best players involved,'' Gooch said.

``When we get that right and the cricket more tougher and more akin to what they face in Test cricket then I think we will see the benefit. You will get tougher, stronger characters.

``If people think our domestic cricket is producing quality Test players and hardened, tough Test players then I think they are misguided.''

Gooch was uncertain whether the decision to split the county championship into divisions, with promotion and relegation, would produce the required results.

``Every player playing county cricket aspires to play for England but do they know what they need to do and what they need to sacrifice to get there?'' he asked.

``We need to develop our whole game over a long period of time and then when players come into the highest level they are going to be better equipped.''

England captain Alec Stewart maintains the raw ability exists in England to produce a formidable Test side.

He said he enjoyed leading England despite being on the losing side in his fifth consecutive Ashes series.

``Even though we have lost, I have enjoyed captaining this side,'' Stewart said.

``Our performances in the last two Tests shows the boys in our dressing room have got what it takes. We just have to make sure we reach a consistent level.''

Stewart also backed coach David Lloyd despite media speculation the coach will be replaced after the World Cup one-day tournament starting in May in England.

``As far as I'm concerned David has done a tremendous job as coach and will continue to do so,'' Stewart said.

``He's prepared us very well - we are the best prepared side as regards to back up staff and preparation as any England side.

``Once we cross the white line it's up to the 11 players that go out there. The coach can't do any more.''