Katherine Brunt talks to ecb.co.uk after England wrapped up a 12-4 series victory over Australia
Katherine Brunt hailed England Women's resolve after they ended the Ashes series with a fifth consecutive victory against Australia.
England came into the multi-format rubber on the back of a third-place finish in the Women's World Cup, which saw Australia usurp them as champions.
England Women's Cricketer of the Year for 2012-13 told ecb.co.uk that it was important for England to beat Australia to prove they could compete against them.
“It's been a long journey and something that we've thought about ever since we lost the World Cup," said Brunt.
“After such disappointment during the winter months, it's something that we've really worked hard (on), to get back and prove that we can play better than the world champions."
Having already secured the series at the Ageas Bowl in the second Twenty20 international, England produced another sterling display to record a comprehensive seven-wicket win at the Emirates Durham ICG.
Easing off in the final game was never an option ahead of the return series this winter, revealed Brunt.
She said: “We talked about this in our meeting yesterday, that this was one of the most important games to win - not only to be lifting the trophy as champions of the game - but to have really good momentum going into the next Ashes series Down Under, so we're really, really happy that the result has turned out the way it has.”
This summer's series was the first to be contested over three formats, rather than a one-off Test match.
The sides competed in a Test, three one-day internationals and three T20s. Brunt is a fan of the new set-up and praised England's versatility throughout the rubber.
“It's always a special moment to win a series against Australia but this new format of the Ashes (has) just been incredible.
“The change-up from playing in different formats is quite difficult in such a short space of time but this is our first run... and we've all really enjoyed it.
“It's been hard work but we've adapted to the conditions each time. I thought we played some really smart cricket, some really brave cricket, and a lot of people stood up and took responsibility.
“It's been a massive team win. I'm really proud of everyone.”