Emburey issues spin king Warne-ing

Middlesex coach John Emburey watched his batsmen master Shane Warne but declared the leg spinner will still be a threat in the Ashes.

Warne took just two for 108 as Middlesex beat Hampshire by two wickets at Southgate in the Australian's last match before he joins up with his international team-mates ahead of the Test series.

But Emburey has warned England not to write off the 35-year-old.

He said: "Warne bowled well here but the pace of the pitch was a bit slow for him - I am sure with more bowling and pitches that give him more pace he will be himself in Test series.

"He is going to be dangerous - he is still a great player and he will have a big part to play.

"He gives you control at one end and, along with Glenn McGrath, the Australians have two bowlers who can control a game.

"He has had lots to think about recently and that would have distracted him - it has been tough for him.

"He is trying to focus on his cricket and once he gets back with the Australian squad they will get more feedback from their players than they do from other people who don't see that much of him."