McGrath sets sights on 2009 Ashes

The Ashes series is still three months away, yet Glenn McGrath believes he is fit enough and strong enough to play in the 2009 contest in England. McGrath, now 36, even believes he could still be playing when he's 40.

"The older you get the more experienced you are, so mentally you're a lot stronger, he told AAP during Australia's pre-season boot camp. "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. 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 missed two Tests in the 2005 Ashes series, and has been out of the game since January to care for his wife, Jane, who has been battling cancer. However, he was picked for Australia's tour of Malaysia - a tri-series featuring India and the West Indies - and is keen on playing in the upcoming Champions Trophy to ensure fitness for the summer.

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

Few fast bowlers have played successfully beyond the age of 40. Fred Trueman turned out for Derbyshire aged 41, and Gubby Allen still bowled tremendously fast for England even at the age of 45.

"A lot will depend on this tour of Malaysia," McGrath said. "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."