HIGH-SPEED CARSE!

Brydon has wasted no time in clinching pole position to spearhead England's Ashes attack

- RORY DOLLARD

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 showdown 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 Down Under remains the top priority.

It was one of the reasons England drew a close to the record-breaking career of James Anderson over the summer, making room for a different type of fast bowler who could thrive in Australian conditions.

Now, after just four Test appearances, Carse already looks nailed on to spearhead the attack.