Prime Minister David Cameron said:

2013 really is a special year for English cricket. Having hosted the ICC Champions Trophy, it is now time for the big one: the Ashes. Now whether you remember Botham and Willis at Headingley, like I do, or Kevin Pietersen’s defiant stance at the Oval in 2005 – I remember where I was when that happened – nothing captures the public’s imagination quite like a Test match against Australia.

The nation’s got high hopes. We’re right behind the team, and I’m sure they’re going to rise to the occasion. So best of luck from everyone at Downing Street to Alastair Cook and the boys.

Prime Minister’s message for the Ashes