ENGLAND seamer Brydon Carse is licking his lips at the prospect of being involved in the Ashes with the long countdown to next year’s series Down Under well and truly under way.

Having already seen off New Zealand 2-0 ahead of this week’s finale in Hamilton, England’s Test squad know the next time they pack their bags for an overseas tour Australia will be waiting.

There is plenty of serious cricket to be played between now and next November, including the Champions Trophy and a blockbuster home series against India, but reclaiming the urn remains a top priority.