Warne's thoughts drift to 2009

Shane Warne will be nearing 40 when the 2009 Ashes starts © Getty Images

Australia leg-spinner Shane Warne refuses to rule out playing a part in the 2009 Ashes.

It was thought Warne had played his final Test in England when Australia surrendered the famous urn last year, but the 36-year-old insists he remains as motivated as ever.

"There's a lot of time between now and then and there's a lot cricket to be played. I'll be 40 at the end of the 2009 series," he said.

"I don't know. You never want to look too far ahead but you never know what tomorrow brings. I'm enjoying playing cricket at the moment.

"It's my hobby and my passion. I love talking about it and being involved. It comes down to enjoyment. As long as I'm still enjoying it I will continue to play.

"If I feel like I'm letting the team down, not contributing and enjoying things then I won't hang around.

"But never say never. I'm as fit as ever and bowling as well as I have done over the last couple of years.

"If I'm still playing then who knows? I might hang around beyond the next Ashes. We'll have to wait and see."

While speculation over Warne's future in 2009 abounds, there is no doubt he will be available to spearhead Australia's efforts to regain the Ashes in 2007.

The Hampshire captain, who has taken a world record 685 wickets in 140 Tests, predicts it will be another titanic contest if both teams stay injury-free.

"Everyone is looking forward to it and it will come down to who's available and injuries. That will play a huge part," he said.

"Last year we lost Glenn McGrath for a couple of crucial Tests and a few guys had niggles and had to play through them.

"England used just 12 or 13 players so they had everyone fit and ready to play, which makes a huge difference over five Test matches.

"Hopefully everyone will be fit and the captains will have their best players to pick from. Whoever is the best team will win. Hopefully it will be Australia."