Ashes 2017-18 first Test: Joe Root rues missed chances after Australia thrash England by 10 wickets

England captain Joe Root credited Australia counterpart Steve Smith's century in the first innings as the difference between the two sides after the hosts coasted to a 10-wicket win on the final day of the first Test.

Root said the margin of defeat was harsh on England after they were neck-and-neck with Australia for the first three days of the match at the Gabba.

Resuming on 114 without loss, the home side achieved the victory target of 170 in a little over an hour on the morning of the fifth day, with David Warner unbeaten on 87 and Cameron Bancroft 82 not out.

No team has won an Ashes series after losing the first Test since England bounced back after losing the opening Test at Lord's to win the 2005 series 2-1.

The visitors only have four days' rest before the second Test gets underway in Adelaide.

"It doesn't really feel like a 10-wicket defeat. We came here fully confident we could get the win," Root told BBC Test Match Special.

"For three days we were excellent but missed a couple of chances with bat and ball in the first two innings.

"Mark [Stoneman] and [James] Vincey played outstandingly well. To show that composure, character and skill in their first Ashes Test was exceptional."

After being bowled out for 302 in the first innings, England had Australia at 76-4 but an obdurate 141 not out from Smith dragged the home side to a crucial lead of 26.

Root was the only visiting batsman to cross the half-century mark in the second innings as England were bundled out for 195 on day four.

"The wicket got better as the match went on. Steve Smith's knock was incredible – take it out and we would've bowled them out for 150," Root added.

Smith, who was named man-of-the-match for his 326-ball 141 not out, said his team had built up good momentum heading into the day-night Test in Adelaide.

"It's great we've been able to keep our Gabba record. We played some really good cricket after losing the toss on what was a really good wicket," the Australia captain said.

"Nathan Lyon is bowling as well as I've seen him bowl. He went wicketless in the first innings then got the reward in the second. Davey (Warner) and Cameron were magnificent just here."