Colly sets out Ashes aim

Paul Collingwood's most burning desire this winter is to make England's Ashes team.

Collingwood played in the Oval finale which secured the urn last summer and is eyeing a more permanent role this winter. The 30-year-old is in a direct scrap with Alastair Cook and Ian Bell for a place in the middle-order due to the return of captain Andrew Flintoff to the side.

"I have been trying for 12 months to get into the Ashes side," Collingwood said. "I got in for the one match last time and loved it; I love Test cricket; I have played pretty much 12 months now and would love to play in the Ashes."

He added: "But it is going to be an interesting selection dilemma.

"The three of us who have competed all year have known that and that is why we have put in some big performances.

"That competition has been excellent for the side. All I am interested in is to come back having won the Ashes.

"Whether that means I have played all the games, one or two or none at all.

"If we come back with the Ashes in our possession I am happy for English cricket."