Big Ben's Ashes taunt

Don't forget to pack the urn. That was the message confronting Londoners when Big Ben was turned into a monumental Ashes taunt overnight. The faces of Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke peered out over the city as England's players prepare to fly out for Australia.

“Winning the urn back from our age-old rival is the most prized achievement for Australians and we just wanted to send them a reminder not to leave the urn behind," Ponting said. “Our message is clear – we’re prepared and we’re ready so bring on the Ashes!”

Mind you, with the world's most famous timepiece on his side, Ponting will have no excuse for slow over-rates this year.