Harmison ready for Ashes battle

England have no doubt that pace spearhead Steve Harmison will be in prime form for the Ashes.

The Durham fast bowler was dropped for Saturday's Champions Trophy match against West Indies. He had bowled 10.5 overs at a cost of 79 runs in the defeats to India and Australia, but bowling coach Kevin Shine is confident Harmison will put the experience behind him as the main event of England's winter approaches.

"I'm completely confident that come the first Test in Australia, Steve will perform. He's the best bowler in the world," Shine told the Mail on Sunday.

"On form, he's a frightening proposition. Test match cricket is completely different from one-day cricket."

England return home this week for brief respite, before flying out to Australia where their tour opens with a match against a Prime Minister's XI in Canberra on November 10.

Harmison's form has concerned many observers, with former England skipper Bob Willis claiming the 28-year-old "has found no rhythm between (the Test against Pakistan at) Old Trafford in July and now" and arguing he should be given every available chance to bowl against international opposition.

But Shine is adamant that England are building up Harmison with a view to him hitting peak form for the opening Test against Australia in Brisbane, which begins on November 23.

"I know how much Steve is looking forward to the Ashes," said Shine.

"Harmison bowls at 90mph. We need to look after him. He's a proven, nailed-on match winner. When you get fast bowlers like that, you've got to look after them."