Ponting and North looking forward to their Headingley return

Australia wrapped up a comfortable 150-run win over Pakistan at Lord's in what Ponting believes was another major step towards reclaiming the famous urn.

"We've all got one eye on stuff that's happening later in the year and these steps this week have been good ones in the right direction as far as improving our Test cricket," said Ponting. "We've got a few more Tests to play yet, but things are going well for us.

"It is seven straight wins now and that's 13 straight against Pakistan, which is another good record to have over them. Things are coming together nicely.

"Test matches are not easy to win. It's not about rebuilding now for us, I feel that we're through that and once we get all our guys back to full fitness we're going to put a really formidable side on the park, which is a really good sign for us."

Marcus North, a part-time bowler, took a remarkable 6-55 on Friday to register the best figures by an Australian spinner at Lord's.

With Shane Watson and Simon Katich plus debutants Tim Paine and Steve Smith all making significant contributions, Australia have potential match-winners emerging throughout the team.

North agreed it was important to send that message to England before this winter's Ashes showdown.

"Yes, it gives us real confidence. Whoever plays a part, we have a real good core group of players that are going to lead Australia forward in all forms of the game," said North.

Australia's most immediate task is to wrap up this Test series 2-0 with a victory at Headingley this week over a Pakistan side that remains in disarray.

Shahid Afridi announced at the close of play Friday that he was quitting Test cricket, claiming he did not have the temperament to be a good enough influence on his team-mates.

For North, Headingley holds special memories following his score of 110 in Australia's victory over England in Leeds last summer – and he hopes to be remembered again for his batting once. North was a little embarrassed to have made the Lord's honours board with the ball.

"I am probably as surprised as anyone. I didn't wake up expecting to get a bag of wickets," he said. "But an opportunity to contribute with the ball is something I like to do and and having that opportunity to help win a Test match for Australia was certainly one of the highlights of my career to date.

"I have got good memories of batting up at Headingley and I am hoping to build on that this week. Hopefully I can contribute there with the bat instead of the ball."