‘I want to have an impact on every series'

Based on an exceptional last season -72 Test wickets in 17 games and 51 victims in 31 ODI appearances - do you think you have finally arrived as the spearhead of the Aussie bowling attack?
I am comfortable with my role, and I believe that includes leading from the front. I feel confident in what I can do and that's translating into improved performance. I have had to change my style a little without Glenn [McGrath] at the other end - any team is better off with him tying up an end and taking wickets every few overs.

What are the major changes that you have had to bring about now that you are leading the bowling pack?
Consistency - Ricky [Ponting] knows what he is going to get. I will concentrate on a tighter line, but at the same time maintain pace.

In the absence of Glenn McGrath, how big is the challenge of leading the attack?
Glenn's are huge shoes to fill, so there is always expectation. As I said earlier, I am confident in my role so I do not feel any pressure.

Is it more demanding in the Tests than in the ODIs?
Definitely. You are one of four bowlers in a Test, and I am required to make early breakthroughs.

Going back to the 2005 Ashes, even if you didn't have a good one in terms of wickets, do you think that there were significant gains in any department of your game?
Yes, I was playing Test cricket again! Once I settled back in, I felt that I was able to take some important wickets and also spend some time at the crease with the bat.

You are at an age where fast bowlers tend to mature, but there's still a lot of learning to do, isn't there?
Yes, there's always something to learn. I spent some time with Wasim Akram during the Bangladesh tour and the amount of information he was able to impart over an hour or so just went to show what more there is to learn.

Did he point out anything that you already didn't know?
He pointed out a number of things, which I am keen to put into practice.

You've already spoken about the workload, but it just seems that the season never got over. How do you plan to prepare yourself and keep in shape?
Rest. I am looking forward to stepping away from the game for a few weeks. I'll then get back into light training with the focus on the Ashes. Our next series is something special.

A busy year ahead with the Ashes and then the World Cup. What would be your major goals?
To win the Ashes, and for me to play a key role. I want to have an impact on every series I play in. It is a big year and one that we're keen to dominate.

Looking back at all those months you spent on the bench waiting for your turn, what did you tell yourself or do to keep the motivation high?
I worked really hard. I trained harder than I ever have and made sure that when my opportunity came, I took it with both hands. The motivation was always there and the results are starting to show.

How disappointing was it to miss out on playing against India in India, for example?
I love India and I am desperate to play a Test there. It hurt, but if I am patient my time will come.

Are you optimistic about the future of fast bowling in Australia? What do you make of guys like Shaun Tait and Mitchell Johnson?
Yes, I am, but at the same time, there is a good attack out there now. We will always help the younger players where we can.

What of Brett Lee the batsman? You've been in great form lately. How hard have you worked at your batting? Anything specific?
I am concentrating harder, playing with clear objectives and within my limitations. I am also enjoying the challenge.