Warne sees ban benefits

Shane Warne, who is serving a year-long ban for drug use, is convinced that the time spent on the sidelines will help prolong his career. He tested positive for a banned diuretic in the build-up to the World Cup in February, and was sent home without playing a game.

Speaking to BBC Online during a brief visit to Hampshire, whom he would have captained this summer but for the ban, he said, "I'm enjoying this break and it will probably help me play for longer. I'm the fittest I've ever been in my life. All the little niggles and shoulder problems have had 12 months to settle down."

Warne reckons he has another five years of cricket left in him, and sees the ban as no more than a temporary aberration. He did admit however that it hit him hard initially. "At the moment, I miss playing for Australia and representing my country," he said. "But I know the time will come when hopefully I will be back out there. I see this as a hiccup, no more than a hiccup," he added. Despite the ban, has been awarded a contract by the Australian Cricket Board.

While Warne's making the most of his enforced vacation, he insisted that motivation wouldn't be a problem when he makes his way back next February. "Playing for Australia, you don't need any motivation," he said. "That's motivation enough."