October 17 Thursday 2002
McGrath criticises 'negative' Hussain

LONDON: Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath has dismissed England's chances of regaining the Ashes this winter, claiming that Nasser Hussain's recent comments are a clear indication that the tourists have an attitude problem.

England begin the five-match series in Brisbane on November 7 and McGrath was quoted in Wednesday's 'Daily Mail' newspaper as saying that the English captain displayed a defeatist approach in recent remarks about his side's prospects in Australia. Speaking to the paper from Sharjah, where Australia are preparing for Saturday's third and final Test against Pakistan, McGrath said: "I heard a comment that he (Hussain) would be happy if England just compete in this series. It's a very negative comment. It makes me think they believe they are beaten before they arrive."

McGrath needs just four more victims to become the eighth man to take 400 Test wickets and he believes that confidence is the key to a successful series. "You've got to be pretty confident going in to have a chance. You've got to go out there and back yourselves. We are very confident that we will win the series," he said.

The 32-year-old has a good record against England and was the bowling nemesis of the country's last captain Mike Atherton. McGrath hopes that by targeting a key member of the touring side it will undermine their chances and although he has yet to reveal who it will be, he has promised to name the player before the series begins.

"I'll be happy to say who I am targeting as I am confident in my ability to produce the goods. It puts the pressure on, but you've got to believe in yourself."