McCullum urges fans to keep the faith after loss

Head coach looks to stay positive after first Ashes Test defeat

- By RORY DOLLARD

England's Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope chase runs during the first Ashes Test in Perth

HEAD coach Brendon McCullum has urged England fans to “keep the faith’ despite their Ashes heartbreak in Perth, and plans to do exactly that with struggling opener Zak Crawley.

The tourists are picking up the pieces after an eight-wicket thrashing in the first Test, the first two-day finish to an Ashes clash since 1921.

Supporters at home, and those who made the trip Down Underin their thousands, have witnessed a major stumble at the first hurdle but McCullum is eager for them not to abandon hope.

“We are bitterly disappointed for us, but also for all the fans who have turned up here to support us so well)” McCul-lum said.

“Yd say keep the faith. We have a talented group, we believe in each other and are pretty level.

“That doesn’t mean it won't hurt.