That is a sentiment shared in the Australian camp, as they aim to continue a remarkable spell of dominance on British soil.

The Australians have not lost a series in England since 1959, nor an Ashes since 1970.

“It’s huge to have the Ashes back,” Kangaroos half-back Nathan Cleary told BBC Sport. “The international game is heading in the right direction.

“I feel very lucky to be part of this series. I was very young in 2003 but back in Australia they have been showing a lot of clips from the games. To be able to watch that and hear stories, you feel very lucky.

“They’re very excited back home; there will be a few early mornings for people to watch the games.”

Cleary, unlike opposite number Lewis, has endured a disappointing domestic campaign.

Cleary’s Penrith Panthers missed out on the National Rugby League title for the first time in five years, and the Grand Final for the first time in six. He was also beaten with New South Wales in the State of Origin series in July.

The 27-year-old is determined that disappointment will not spill on to the international stage as Australia look to make good on their status as world champions, the number one ranked international side and clear favourites in this series.

“We didn’t finish the way we wanted to at Penrith, but being able to represent Australia on a historic stage is something I can’t wait to be a part of – it’s a great way to finish the season,” he said.

England, meanwhile, are boosted by more NRL experience in their side than ever before, with six of their squad representing clubs down under.

Newcastle Knights back rower Kai Pearce-Paul is among them and says his experience in the NRL could offer invaluable help to his international team-mates.

“My time in Australia, I’ve loved it,” he told BBC Sport. “Being at Newcastle, a small town big on rugby, it has made me feel at home. And waking up and going to the beach in the morning, I can’t complain.

“A lot of these boys might not have seen much of the Australians play. Playing against them at the weekend helps me out, lets me see the patterns and the trends, so hopefully I can help my boys out too.”