'This Ashes series is weighing up to be the big one'

If Glenn McGrath will spearhead Australia's bowling in the Ashes, then it is Justin Langer who holds the key to the World champions' batting.

At 34, this could be Langer's last Ashes series, but that doesn't worry him. For him, every match is a new challenge, and a chance to improve his game.

He may not rank in the top-ten list of batsmen, but his name certainly figures in the top openers of all-time. His record speaks for itself: 6607 runs in 88 Tests, at 46.52, with 21 centuries.

Along with best friend Matthew Hayden, the left-hander is part of one of the all-time best opening pairs in Test cricket and key to Australia's winning streak in the last few years.

Top-scorer in Tests in 2004, Langer is in top form going into the Ashes, having scored a century in the warm-up match against Leicestershire last weekend.

Australia did not have the best of starts to their England tour, losing to the hosts, Somerset and then Bangladesh. But they bounced back with a 2-1 victory over England in the three-match NatWest Challenge Series and are certainly looking to carry their form in the upcoming five-match Test series.

They haven't lost an Ashes series since 1989, but Langer feels England are winning matches and feeling confident, which could prove to be dangerous.

In an e-mail interview with Harish Kotian, Langer shared his thoughts on the upcoming series.

Will the NatWest Challenge three-match series victory give Australia a psychological edge going into the Ashes?

Yes. I think momentum is an unequivocal factor in any team's success; I believe the way Australia played in the last two games is very significant.

Australia went to England with a big reputation. Many felt they would return undefeated. What went wrong, considering Australia not only lost to England, but also to Bangladesh and Somerset?

Australia had many distractions early in the tour and, without making excuses, I felt it was only a matter of time before this great team clicked into top gear. Champion players or champion teams should never be written off and Australia are a champion team with a number of great players.

Do you agree with Shane Warne that this is the best England team to pose a threat in the Ashes since 1989? What makes this England team different from the ones you played before?

The main difference is that England have learned how to win games of cricket. They are confident and have learned the art of winning. This confidence is dangerous to any opponent.

You finished as the world's leading run scorer in Tests in 2004, with 1481 runs and five centuries, at an average of 54.85? Did you work on anything special last year? Any changes to your batting?

There haven't been any real changes. My success simply reflects the work I have put into my game over many years. I am always looking to get better and by doing this I am always looking to improve my game. Again, it is amazing what can be achieved with confidence, a solid game plan and trust in your ability.

You have a good relation with Matthew Hayden. Even off the field you are good friends; how does it help you both when you are in the middle?

Opening the batting together is like going to work every day with your best mate. Not many people have the chance to do this in any occupation. Enjoyment is a crucial part of success.

Who are the key England players Australia need to watch out for? Will Kevin Pietersen or Andrew Flintoff make a difference, or will the pressure of the Ashes get to them?

Only time will tell. This series should be great because both teams have a number of players who can make a difference to the outcome of a Test match. There should be plenty of exciting Test cricket over the next five Tests.

England are relying heavily on Steve Harmison, who has become one of the most dangerous bowlers in recent times. How are you planning to cope with his bowling?

His height, and therefore bounce, make him tough to play. But if I can watch the ball closely from his hand then the odds will be back in my favour.

At 34 this could be your last Ashes series. So a series victory will be the most important of your career?

Maybe this will be my last series, maybe it won't be. I don't like to put limitations on my life or career. India, last October, was the biggest series of my life, but this Ashes series is weighing up to be the big one.

How long will you continue playing for Australia? What do you plan to do after cricket?

I am not looking too far ahead; I just want to love every game I play in for my country.