Gilchrist happy with Australia's start

Vice-captain Adam Gilchrist was as delighted with the priceless match practice the Australians gained as he was with their 360-run victory over Worcestershire on Sunday.

Gilchrist felt all the players benefited from experiencing English conditions in a match which launched their Ashes tour in convincing style.

"We are here for an enjoyable summer and a win is a win in any game of cricket," Gilchrist said.

"But I guess first and foremost it was great all the guys played, whether it was batsmen, bowlers and myself as the wicketkeeper. It was really good to spend time out in the middle.

"After our first two days training we were all very stiff and sore. There is only so much time you can spend in the nets and running around the practice field.

"The real benefit comes with time out in the middle and that's exactly what we got out of this game.

"The time for preparation is becoming less and less in between test matches and one-day games and the start of tours.

"But it's a fast-moving game and a fast-moving itinerary these days. You have just got to acclimatise as quickly as you possibly can."

Mail Cricket Editor