Ponting full of praise

Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne embrace as Australia scent victory © Getty Images

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Australia captain Ricky Ponting felt his team were well rewarded for their hard work after losing the 2005 Ashes series in England.

Ponting, who came in for much criticism following England’s triumph last year, steered his side to a convincing 206-run victory in Perth that saw them regain the famous urn at the first attempt.

“We had a long time to think about it and get ready for the series,” he said.

“After losing the last one we have to go back and look at ourselves.

"We had to try to find ways to improve and I think we did that. I think this has been second to none.

“Adelaide was the best win I’ve been involved with and we will remember this win for a long time.

“We had to work really hard yesterday. That’s why this team has been so good, really digging in and fighting.”

Last year saw Ponting become the first Australia captain to lose an Ashes series in almost 20 years.

The loss hurt but Ponting, who turns 32 on Tuesday, insisted he was no more motivated for revenge than any other member of the team.

Ponting proudly displays the object of his affections

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“I wasn’t hurting more than anyone else,” he said. “We sat down and worked things out and the boys played well.

“It was one of the lowlights of my career but this is one of the special times. It is a huge occasion to win the Ashes back.

“It’s elation as far as I’m concerned. Relief may come after the last Test but we’ve won three Tests and won back the Ashes.

“We’ve got two Test matches to play and obviously I want to see another couple of performances from the boys.”

Veteran seamer Glenn McGrath praised his team-mates for their resilience following the disappointment of last summer.

Australia have won 14 of the 15 Tests they have played since England captured the Ashes at the Oval 15 months ago.

Man of the match Mike Hussey enjoys his first Ashes win

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McGrath said: “We sat down (last year) and said England played well and deserved to win.

“We came back. I think the Ashes are now back where they belong.

“The team when we have lost have always bounced back. The team is great in that respect and learn from when we have lost.”

Batsman Mike Hussey, who did not feature in 2005 but has enjoyed a fine series, was thrilled to be part of the winning side.

“It is going to take a long time to wipe the smile off the face. I’m really proud to be part of such an Australian team,” said Hussey, who was named man of the match for his innings of 74 not out and 103.

“It’s everyone’s achievement, not one or two of the guys.

“I had to work hard to get into the team and this is what playing for Australia is all about.”