Notts trio psyched up for Ashes

Nottinghamshire's England internationals are relishing the prospect of facing Australia in the upcoming Ashes series.

Stuart Broad, Graeme Swann and Ryan Sidebottom have all been included in the 16-man Ashes training squad.

"England v Australia is the big game in cricket - it's going to be massive," Swann told BBC East Midlands Today.

"It's a very exciting time for cricket. The World Twenty20 has got the whole country in the mood for cricket again."

The first Test between England and Australia begins on 8 July in Cardiff, and all three Nottinghamshire players are hoping they can claim a spot in the side, having been selected in the 16-man training squad.

"I couldn't be more excited leading into an Ashes series"

"I'm really excited, I cant wait," Sidebottom told BBC Radio Nottingham.

The left-armer endured an injury-plagued few months before returning to action in May, but despite his problems this season, he believes he is now back to his very best.

"I'm not 100% sure whether I'm going to play in every game - I'm back in form, I'm bowling really well - but we'll have to wait and see," he said.

"I'm not taking anything for granted, but if I'm there taking wickets then hopefully I can push for a place in the side."

He will be in direct competition with Notts team-mate Broad for a place in the side and, given the latter's recent run of form, Sidebottom knows he will have to impress selectors if he wants to force his way into the side.

"I think there's healthy competition for places," added Sidebottom.

"I think Jimmy (Anderson) and Broady have probably got the number one spot - they've been fantastic - and I'm happy just to be part of the Ashes.

"Of course I'm desperate to play, but what will be, will be."

For Broad himself, being part of the Ashes series is something he has worked towards for a very long time.

"Throughout my teenage years I was fixated with Test cricket and I would always be running in from break at school to check the score.

"I couldn't be more excited leading into an Ashes series, it's certainly the biggest thing in my career.

"Let's hope the whole country gets behind us and we enjoy the same amount of success as we did in 2005."

Broad has impressed in his recent England outings, and is now particularly looking forward to taking on Australian captain Ricky Ponting.

"Certainly he's going to be a key batsman for them as he has been for the past eight of nine years," he said.

"He's a world-class player and it's going to be exciting to test myself against one of the best to have ever played the game."

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