Zampa: No issue with Marsh and Bird smoking during Ashes celebrations

Melbourne, January 11: Australia one-day international spinner Adam Zampa said he has no issue with cricketers smoking after Shaun Marsh and Jackson Bird were pictured doing so amid the country's Ashes celebrations.

Pictures via The Daily Telegraph surfaced on Thursday (January 11) of Marsh and Bird smoking cigarettes in Sydney as Australia celebrated their 4-0 Ashes victory over England.

The pair have been slammed for their actions, however, Zampa dismissed the criticism.

"I don't think there was any kids at the [bar] Coogee Pavillion," Zampa told reporters.

"I don't think they were doing it on purpose in front of any kids either.

"After a 4-0 Ashes, the guys have done quite well, it's probably a nice time just to loosen up a little bit and have a beer and, if they want to, they can light one up."

Zampa was speaking ahead of the opening ODI against England at the MCG in Melbourne on Sunday (January 14).

It will be the first of five games and the 25-year-old – who has taken 40 wickets in 27 ODIs – is determined to cement his place in the team.

"I'm on edge a little bit at the moment and I think that's probably a good thing for me," Zampa said.

"I think I perform my best with that. There's guys trailing me like [Ashton Agar] who's bowling really well now with the white ball, so I think if anything that will help me as well."

Source: OPTA