SIMON Jones can't wait for the new cricket season to begin, because he is bowling as fast as ever.

The influential pace-man, who put pen to paper on a three year deal with Glamorgan in the summer, admits that he is looking forward to the Ashes, but in the meantime is aiming to become a success with the new ball.

He explained: "I thought long and hard this winter about what to do and after speaking to Mike Fatkin (Glamorgan chief executive) I was certain that this was where I wanted to stay, it was a big thing for me.

"I certainly want to take the new ball this season with Glamorgan, because I have been branded as an old-ball bowler which has annoyed me a bit.

"I used to bowl with the new ball but didn't get a chance recently because of the senior boys we had here. "But now I am looking forward to doing it, because I am bowling at 94 or 95 mph, which is back to where I was. "My main focus this season is on the Ashes, although by playing well for Glamorgan I can get myself in contention for the one-day squad as well, which would be a bonus.

"The hype has already started for the Ashes, it doesn't get any bigger and it should be a fantastic series. "Any sportsman likes a challenge and Australia is the ultimate challenge at the moment, but we are a form side and it will be very difficult for them as well.

"I only bowled seven overs in the last Ashes (Jones snapped his cruciate ligament in the field during the first Test), so I want to prove myself this time and I will be giving it my all.

However, Jones was quick to point out that he remains keen to help the Glamorgan cause when he is available.

He said: "I am going to do everything in my power to help Glamorgan, I don't see this time as a warm-up for the Ashes, I see it as a chance to help my County.

"It is a big season for us, we need to stay in the first division in the Championship and I like the idea of being seen as a more senior member of the squad.

"We all want to play cricket and do well, but if I can help anyone or take the pressure off some of the younger lads, then all the better."