IAN Caunce has spoken of his delight at being selected for England Over 60s’ Ashes tour to Australia later this year.

The aggressive Oxford Downs batsman has been picked for the month-long trip after a successful year for both country and county.

Caunce’s fine form for the newly-formed Oxfordshire Over 60s side, when he scored 667 runs at an average of 74.11, did not go unnoticed.

Having played in England’s final two-day game against Australia last summer, the 64-year-old Lancastrian was the home team’s top scorer.

“I am absolutely delighted,” said Caunce, who moved to Oxfordshire more than 20 years ago.

“When you get to our age you just hope to still be able to play cricket and perform, but to get selected to play for my country on top of that is an amazing feeling.”

The tour party leaves on Friday, November 19.

The touring side will play 14 games in Australia, with three of those games two-day Test matches, with the others being one-day games.

“I can’t wait,” he added.

“I’m not sure I’m going to miss the English winter while I am out there.”