June 25, 2007	Monday	Jamadi-us-Sani 09, 1428

LONDON, June 24: Marcus Trescothick believes he is ‘getting closer’ to playing for England again but added he wouldn't hurry his return to the international arena until he was assured of his fitness.

Opening batsman Trescothick hasn't played for England since quitting the Ashes tour of Australia in November with a stress-related illness.

Instead the 31-year-old left-hander has concentrated on his career with Somerset.

In Trescothick's absence Alastair Cook has cemented his place as an England opening batsman. But Andrew Staruss's recent run of poor form led some to ask if Trescothick was ready for a return to England duty.

“Of course I'd love to play for England again and watching them this summer has sometimes been painful for me,” Trescothick told the Mail on Sunday.

“I'm not ready yet, but I have made strides since the start of the season. I am improving and I'm certain I'm getting closer.”

Trescothick also quit England's tour of India in February last year and he agreed he had to be willing to travel if he wanted an international recall.

“Clearly, if I want to continue my career I have to undertake another tour. But for now, if and when I get back to full fitness and I think I am okay and ready to play, I'll make myself available for England. If they don't pick me, that is just tough.”—AFP