Fletcher rues missed chances

Ricky Ponting savours the moment as the Ashes return to Australia © Getty Images

Buy this photo

England coach Duncan Fletcher claimed Australia’s wealth of experience gave them a decisive edge in the Ashes.

The tourists surrendered their grip on the urn after losing the third Test in Perth, Australia wrapping up victory by 206 runs two balls into the afternoon session.

Fletcher claimed England had a side good enough to retain the Ashes but their relative inexperience proved crucial to the outcome of the series.

“I felt in these three games we did compete,” he said. “Adelaide was close and we competed in this Test.

“We did have a team to compete but it is a very youthful side. We had a few opportunities but we didn’t grab them. Australia, with their experience, did.”

Fletcher also felt England prepared as well as they could have done given their schedule over the past year.

He added: “From our point of view we have been playing nine months non-stop. People thought it was a ridiculous contract going up to the World Cup.

Adam Gilchrist and Shane Warne toast Andrew Flintoff's departure © Getty Images

Buy this photo

"We had just two weeks off before the ICC (Champions Trophy) and now those same people are saying we need more cricket. We put a lot of work in.”

Fletcher also played a straight bat to criticism of England’s selection policy; they made changes only once the first two Tests had been lost.

He said: “That’s been mentioned and it is going to be asked. Selection is very difficult and always judged in hindsight.

“Beforehand people say it is difficult and afterwards they say it was a simple decision.

“It is always difficult. Selection is the hardest part of cricket and it is not easy.

“I have had criticisms on numerous occasions and as long as there are more ups and downs, that is main thing.”