'The Ashes Are Back Where They Belong'

Andrew Flintoff "Obviously 3-0 down with three Tests played is not ideal. We played well in some of the Test but Australia have not allowed us to come back. We tried to apply pressure but every time we tried to do that Australia came back hard at us. We've had some good performances but it has not quite come off for us. It's not been through lack of trying or lack of effort.

"I think we prepared well. Most of the lads were in India for four to five weeks. The lads were happy, there are no excuses on that front. Australia hit us hard and we didn't come back from it."

Ricky Ponting "We had a long time to think about it and get ready for the series. 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.

"I wasn't hurting more than anyone else [after 2005]. 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."

Duncan Fletcher "I felt in these three games we did compete. 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.

"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."

Glenn McGrath "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."

Mike Hussey "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. It's everyone's achievement, not one or two of the guys."