Shane Warne was generous in defeat after Australia lost the Ashes when their 2-1 series defeat was confirmed at The Oval on Monday afternoon.

Warne finished the series - which will probably be his last in England - with 40 wickets after picking up 12 victims in the final Test.

"It's been one of those series," Warne said.

"They were just too good for us in the series and full credit to England.

"We tried as much as we could but weren't good enough, but it's been an enjoyable series.

"England enjoy their cricket, people always get behind their team and it's a pleasure to play here - the grounds are always good and full."

Australia skipper Ricky Ponting added: "The game was set up to be really good game of cricket.

"Through the course of the series we weren't good enough to capitalise on opportunities - but congratulations to Michael Vaughan and Duncan Fletcher, they've done a great job.

"You expect of every Australia team to battle to the end, we had a few chances, but Kevin had a sensational knock.

"It's the best series I've been part of, I'm looking forward to our next battle."