91Èȱ¬

Middlesex captain Chris Rogers says playing for Australia in this summer's Ashes series would be the highlight of his career.

The 35-year-old batsman's sole Test appearance came against India in 2008.

He told 91Èȱ¬ London 94.9: "I love Middlesex and want them desperately to do well but there is another County Championship next year.

"The Ashes doesn't come around too often. To play in this Test series will just be the ultimate."

He added: "There were lots of times, particularly when sides were picked, that I didn't think I'd get another opportunity.

"It would be the highlight of my career and the culmination of a lot of things.

"I just can't wait for that moment."

Rogers, who has scored more than 19,500 runs at an average of 50.16 in his first-class career, will join up with Australia following their Champions Trophy campaign.

He believes that having already played Test cricket for the national side will help him deal with the added pressure should he feature against England this summer.

"The best thing is I have got my debut out of the way," he said.

"In your first Test there are so many other things going on in your head it is hard to concentrate. I've had a month or so to deal with the selection and now I just can't wait.

"The craze that goes with the Ashes is unbelievable and to be part of that is going to be fantastic.

"I know what is coming so if I am lucky enough to walk out in that first Test it will blow me away. Hopefully I can deal with it.

"I guess it is important to keep my feet on the ground for the time being.

"It will be a massive challenge so I will have to keep doing the things I am doing."