England batsman Ian Bell admits he is relishing the chance to avenge his Ashes misery against Australia.
Bell averaged just 32 in 18 Ashes Tests before the current series and became something of a whipping boy for the Australians, with Shane Warne taking several opportunities to taunt him for his perceived lack of grit.
But the Warwickshire star has finally matured into England's middle-order lynchpin and Australia have been unable to extend their dominance against him.
Bell has scored a century in the last three Ashes Tests, including vital innings in the victories at Trent Bridge and Lord's.
"From my first couple of Ashes series I knew I had to improve on that," Bell said.
"The Australian team I started against was pretty good, so it is nice to be putting my hand up now as a senior player when we've needed it.
"I feel pretty confident right now and it is good to be putting it together in an Ashes series which is what I've wanted to do.
"I don't really feel too bad about the previous series but it is nice to be able to do things when the team need it most and scoring hundreds is what you want to do.
"To have three now against Australia is exactly where I want to be."
With England already 2-0 up in the series, they can retain the Ashes with a win or a draw in the third Test at Old Trafford next week.
