Alec Stewart today shrugged off the accolades following England's landmark series triumph over South Africa to single out the contribution of predecessor Michael Atherton.

Captain Stewart has deservedly received the majority of the praise for the determined manner in which he lifted his side after an emphatic defeat in the second Test at Lord's to clinch the series 2-1 with yesterday's 23-run victory at Headingley.

But Stewart insisted the turnaround in England's fortunes, which follow a 3-1 defeat by West Indies in the Caribbean this winter, is the culmination of Atherton's hard work and dedication during his four years and 51 Tests as captain.

"It's not just this year that has enabled us to beat South Africa," said Stewart.

"Some of us have been together for seven or eight years, and Athers is very much part of the team. He deserves a lot of credit for what has happened this summer.

"I've played 80-odd Test matches, and a lot of the boys have played Tests for the last five to 10 years and we've been through a lot - to finally win a five-Test series is very special."

Australian Test star Mark Waugh insists his side are not "shaking in their boots" ahead of this winter's Ashes series, despite England's series triumph over South Africa.

Waugh said: "I'm looking forward to the series. I wouldn't say we're shaking in our boots but I think it will be a very close contest.

"England have proved they are a very good cricket side by beating South Africa and I think it's going to be a great contest."

"I think we'll be favourites, that's for sure, but I don't think there will be much between the two sides."

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