PERTH: Ahead of the five-match Ashes starting on November 21, former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has hailed the Ben Stokes-led England team as the best side the visitors have sent out in this century.
Since arriving in Perth last week, England have been largely muted about their Ashes build-up, and will play just one warm-up match against England Lions side before the series begins.
"This build up started years ago. It happens the same way every time a series comes around. Some of the ex-Ashes combatants have started as well with Stuart Broad and Dave Warner kicking things off. There’s probably more this time.
"England are talking themselves up more; they’re confident coming to Australia with the group of players they've got and fair enough, this is the best team they’ve had probably this century. Their balance, experience, fast bowling attack looks well suited to conditions. It’s such an exciting time for fans around the world, ” said Ponting on SEN Radio.