England will thrive on Aussie taunts during Ashes series: Stuart Broad

Right-arm fast bowler Stuart Broad has said that he and his other England team-mates will thrive on any Australian taunts that come their way during the Ashes.

Declaring that the visitors have nothing to fear despite their woeful record Down Under, the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Broad, as saying: "I'd expect the Aussies to get under each of our players' skin but it's not something we're scared of, it's something we're going to thrive on."

"I'm certainly coming here without any fear and just looking to enjoy the experience. It's good we've had some players who have been here before to share their experiences and communicate with the boys about where we can improve. But it's a different group from last time, it's a different set-up. So we are coming here confident,” he added.

"We are under no illusions, we know it's going to be tough. I mean Australia are one of the best teams in the world and we as an England team want to become the best team in the world. So you can only do that by coming here and performing strongly," Broad said.

The 24-year-old has become a key part of England's Test set-up since breaking through for his debut three years ago, averaging 28 with the bat and 34 with the ball over 32 appearances.

He starred during England's Ashes win in 2009, claiming 5-37 to help skittle Australia for 160 in the first innings of the fifth and deciding Test at The Oval.

England haven't won a Test series in Australia since 1986-87, with their last tour of the country resulting in a humiliating 5-0 whitewash.