An elated Australian skipper Ricky Ponting was all praise for his team after they emerged victorious in the ICC Cricket World Cup for the third consecutive time.

“It’s an amazing feeling. We have played some unbelievable cricket throughout the tournament and the guys can be proud of what we have achieved. The players kept challenging themselves and it reflected in the team’s performance,” said Ponting.

It was no surprise that Ponting termed Gilchrist’s knock as the difference between the two teams. “It was a special innings.”

He also made a mention of the support staff and the crowd, who have backed them throughout the tournament.

On rain interrupting the big game Ponting felt, “It would have been nice to get a full game. But looking at the weather at one stage, we felt there wouldn’t be a game at all. So we are happy that we got a game in and put up an amazing performance.”

Ponting also congratulated the Sri Lankan team on reaching the finals.

Meanwhile, Sri Lankan skipper Mahela Jayawardene also felt that Gilchrist’s knock turned the tide in Australia’s favour. “We were always chasing the game once Gilchrist played that innings and were in a good position at one stage but could not maintain it. All credit to Ricky and his guys.”

Mahela hailed the contributions of veterans Sanath, Murali, Vaas and Marvan, who might not be around when the next ICC Cricket World Cup is played. “They have done great service to Sri Lankan cricket and have been instrumental in our cricket’s rise.”

The Lankan skipper left thanking the supporters in the West Indies and those back home.

Man of the Match Adam Gilchrist, who made a sensational 149 said, “It has been a really satisfying day. I was frustrated having got out in the 20s and 30s earlier but I am happy that today I put my hand up.”

The retiring Glenn McGrath was declared the Player of the Tournament. “I am pretty happy with the way things have finished. It has been a long career, loved every minute of it and I will miss it a lot but now I have to go home and spend some time with my family.”