“The opening partnership was tremendous,” sthe Aussie skipper said on Saturday. “It was one of the biggest moments of the match. That, and early on the second morning when India batted and the scoreboard was not going anywhere. I thought we played some excellent cricket throughout. We were disciplined with the bat. With the ball, we had our plans and did it differently from how we normally do. It was a very pleasing win because the wicket was more suited to the sub-continental style of play.”

Ponting admitted that the ease of the win, with a day and an hour to share, had surprised him. “I knew when I declared yesterday that we wouldn't lose. I expected it to be hard work today, on a really hot day. We felt that with guys like Dravid and Laxman, they are known to bat long periods. But the way we bowled and fielded was outstanding. In fact, our fielding was one of the major differences between the two sides.

“I am extremely happy with how our bowling group is at the moment,” Ponting added. “Brett's led very well as the leader of the group and Mitchell Johnson keeps improving day by day, almost over by over. The maidens at the start of day two created a lot of apprehensioon throughout the order. I know as a batsman that you want the board ticking over, otherwise it creates a lot of pressure.”

Identifying day two as when Australia got their noses in front, the Tasmanian went on, “We let India back into the game late on day one with some of our batting. At the end of the first day, it was a 50-50 game. But the start of day two was when the game really changed. From then on, we were always on top. It is very satisfying to defeat a very good Indian team by 337 runs in a Test match.”

Australia are just one win away from equalling their own record of 16 straight Test wins. “It is getting closer by the game, but we just try and get about our normal business. We will all be really proud of it if we achieve that.”
Adam Gilchrist surpassed Ian Healy's tally of 395 dismissals to become Australia's most successful stumper. “I am really thrilled,” said the vice-captain. “The fact that I have done it in just 93 Tests is testament to the quality of fast bowling and spinners we have had in the Australian team.”