Brad Haddin says Australia’s new generation must prove they’re as hungry as those who have worn the baggy green before them.

Team culture has come under fire leading into the Ashes after a string of off-field misdemeanours, but Haddin doesn’t believe the new wave of personnel in the side is any more difficult to manage than rookies from the golden age of Australian cricket that he grew up in.

Despite the perception, Australia’s vice-captain believes the current batch of cricketers coming through are actually far more gifted than their predecessors.

However, the by-product of that appears to be a concern over them putting in the hard yards.

As Australia chase a return to the pinnacle of Test cricket, Haddin called on Australia’s Gen Y to show a desire to make their talents count.

“They’ve still got to learn their game and learn what works for them. Keep trying to make themselves better cricketers and not just be happy with the talent they’ve got,” Haddin told AAP.

“They are different because one thing is they’re better.

“These guys can do a lot of things at a young age that we definitely couldn’t do.

“Are they as hungry as us? That will be proven over time.

“Their job now is to turn that talent into being consistent cricketers and winning games for the team.”

Haddin says young players are more brash and outgoing than in previous eras, but share the same fears and vulnerabilities as any cricketer ever has.

The 35-year-old gloveman has been recalled as Michael Clarke’s deputy for the Ashes, as Australia attempts to overcome a leadership vacuum.

Haddin has earned respect throughout his career by being a tough, forthright and honest team man.

He says his chief aim as a leader is to make those around him better.

“I think any sportsman wants to be told where they stand and they want honesty,” he said.

“You’ve got to trust your ability to make them better.

“There’s no point being honest with someone if you’ve got no substance behind it.”

The cornerstone behind any success Australia has this Ashes series will be Clarke’s relationship with Haddin.

It would seem the NSW pair have a lot of work to do to bring the team together before the first Test in Trent Bridge starting on July 10.

However, the positive is Haddin and Clarke’s bond serves as a perfect example for teammates to follow.

“The biggest thing is we’re able to talk cricket with each other,” Haddin says.

“We don’t always agree on the same thing, but that’s part of the reason why we have such a good relationship – we’re always trying to learn things off each other to be better.

“Michael dropped me as well (last year). That was one of your mates leaving you out of the team. But it was the right decision at the time.

“We’ve always had an honest relationship and wanted to play in winning cricket teams.”