Vaughan praises Steve Smith, says he will shine in Ashes

Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes that world's number one Test batsman Steve Smith will continue his rich vein of form against the Alastair Cook-led side in the upcoming Ashes series beginning on July 8 at Cardiff.

Vaughan disagreed with his compatriots' remarks that Smith would be vulnerable at first drop in the Ashes, saying that the Australian would have a really good series.

Vaughan, who led his side to their first Ashes victory since 1986-87, said that although England are trying to pick at him a bit and his technique, Smith has got as good a game awareness as he has seen, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The 40-year-old insisted that Smith's technique is not one that could be taught by a coach, adding that the Australian picks up the length of the ball quickly and efficiently.

The Michael Clarke-led team, who claimed a 5-0 whitewash over England during 2013-14 series, will seek to end a streak of three straight away Ashes series reverses on this tour.