Jones ready for West Indies battle

Monday, January 12, 2004

LONDON, England (AFP): Paceman Simon Jones said on Sunday he is ready to force his way back into the England side and play a major role on the tour of the Caribbean.

The Glamorgan quick has not played for England since suffering an horrific knee injury in the first Ashes Test 14 months ago.

But he said on Sunday he is at peak fitness ahead of the tour to West Indies starting in March.

"I'm feeling really good at the moment. My fitness is good, I'm feeling strong and my bowling action has come along really well," Jones told BBC Radio.

Although he wasn't named in the touring squad, the selectors left a place open for him if he proves his fitness on the Academy tour to India in February.

"I've worked really hard at the Academy," Jones said.

"The past 14 months has been a big test and I'm glad it's in the past now.

"It was so hard thinking I might not play again and it's nice to know I'm in with a chance of playing for England again. 

"All I could do is work as hard as I could but there is always the doubt in the back of your mind.

"I'll ease myself back in India, play three or four games and try to prove myself to get into the England squad. 

"To get rewarded with a place in the West Indies is a hell of a thought for me."

England's first Test against the West Indies starts in Jamaica on April 11. 

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