April 06 Saturday 2002
Hick sets World Cup goal

LONDON: Worcestershire captain Graeme Hick is preparing to end his year-long absence from the England set-up with a refreshing bid to return to the squad for the 2003 World Cup in South Africa.

Hick last played for England during the squad's tours to Pakistan and Sri Lanka last winter but, even at the seasoned age of 35, he feels he still has what it takes to play at international level. "The World Cup is one of my personal goals and I am going to try to perform in the one-day games to put my name in the hat for that," Hick, speaking at Worcestershire's pre-season media day at their New Road ground, said on Friday.

"I feel it is a realistic possibility. Playing in a World Cup is a huge thing to be part of," added Hick, who will be featuring in his 19th season with Worcestershire. "If I perform in the middle for Worcestershire I will have an opportunity. I think I am still good enough."

Hick's absence this winter from the non-stop international schedule is a factor, he says which could go in his favour. "I've still got the hunger and feel very fit. The England guys are just coming back from a long winter and I don't know how much cricket they'll have to play before their international duties are up and running again. But, having rested and trained through the winter in preparation for now, I feel fresh and ready for things and I've got goals I still want to attain."