McGrath targets 2009 Ashes

24 August 2006

Glenn McGrath takes part in the four-day boot camp in Queensland © Getty Images

Veteran Australian pace bowler Glenn McGrath believes he could still be around for Australia's Ashes tour to England in 2009.

McGrath, who missed a significant part of the epic 2005 Ashes series, will be close to 40 when Australia tour England in three years time, but after having a break away from the sport to be with his ill wife, he believes he could be a potent force at international level.

McGrath is currently taking part in the side’s four-day boot camp in the Queensland bush and, at 36, he is confident his fitness is as good as ever.

"I know a lot of guys who have got a lot fitter and stronger when they are 40 than what they were when they were 25," McGrath said.

The Australian players are put through their paces by instructors © Getty Images

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"The older you get the more experienced you are, so mentally you're a lot stronger.

"As long as the body holds together then to me you've got to be a better cricketer, and the body's feeling great, I'm training hard and everything is going well."

McGrath’s comments raise the possibility of Australia being able to field him alongside another of their most successful Ashes bowlers of all-time - Shane Warne, also 36 - in 2009.

"I'm pretty lucky that my action is fairly sound. You never know I might have to push Warney along," he said.

"As long as the desire and the hunger are still there I'll play as long as I can. I still love the game, still love playing, still love being around the guys and getting out in the middle and performing."

McGrath is also keen to play a part in the upcoming Champions Trophy, rather than prepare for the Ashes by playing for his state side New South Wales.

"A lot will depend on this tour of Malaysia," he said of the forthcoming tri-series featuring India and the West Indies.

"It's a good test for me to see how things are going and also for the selectors.

"Otherwise playing those few Pura Cup games for NSW might be a better lead-up to the Ashes. At the end of the day that's the most important thing at the moment."