Middlesex captain Rogers has this summer’s Ashes in his sights

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Middlesex’s County Championship captain Chris Rogers says this summer’s Ashes is “impossible” to put out of his mind.

The Australian 35-year-old, Middlesex’s leading run-scorer in last season’s Championship, has been capped just once by his country but is in the selectors’ thoughts again after Australia suffered a humiliating 4-0 whitewash in India.

“This time last year I definitely didn’t expect to get another chance but things have gone a certain way and I’ve had my name mentioned,” Rogers told West London Sport.

“I think it would be impossible to put that out of my mind completely. I have a lot of responsibility here at Middlesex, so that gives me a lot to think about, and hopefully I’ll do well for the side and other things take care of themselves.”

Rogers’ immediate aim is to help Middlesex build on their recent success, which has seen them win promotion to the First Division followed by an impressive third-placed finish last season.

“It’s a big challenge because I think we’ve played very well in the last two years. I think finishing third last year has probably put a little extra pressure on us,” he said.

“We’re going to have to play well from the beginning but if we can keep the culture we’ve created and people contribute well then I’m pretty sure we’ll be right up there towards the end of the season.”

Middlesex’s opening match against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge this week could feature new signing James Harris, the young England prospect who will bolster an already strong bowling attack.

Rogers said: “We have a strong pace attack so I expect that to be important for us. But I think our batters are going to have to step up this year for us to win the title.

“There are a lots of sides who can win on their day. Naturally [defending champions] Warwickshire and Somerset will be strong, as will Notts, Surrey, and ourselves.

“It might even come down to national selection and who’s available.”

If Rogers himself is affected by national selection, the 2013 season could turn out to be the most memorable of his impressive career

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