WORCESTERSHIRE'S Director of Cricket Tom Moody admits to having an "unusual feeling" during the build up to his side's three-day match against the Australian tourists which opens tomorrow.

But one thing's for certain -- he can't wait for the action to begin at both New Road and in the forthcoming one-day internationals and Test series.

The former Aussie Test star and World Cup winner said: "It's certainly an unusual feeling not playing in either the Australian team or the Worcestershire side because I've played in both here at New Road in the past.

"But I'm looking forward to being involved as a coach."

Moody, however, feels he has adapted well to his new role with the County and does not regret his decision to retire from playing.

He said: "I think the biggest thing that's helped me is the fact I'm happy with my retirement.

"I don't have the urge to play, so I'm quite content with being on the other side of the fence and doing as much as I can."

Moody hopes the tips he picks up from the tourists will help enhance his new experience of being in a different role for the New Road game.

"It's good to pick the brains of any players or coaches whether it's in the Australian team or any other county side.

"Everyone has an opinion on the game and it's interesting to hear it. It's like as a player, you take in what you want and you discard the rest.

"The Australians are number one at the moment in the world.

"They have got some great players that will be performing here in the next three days and also there's a few sentimental favourites with Glenn McGrath coming back.

"He had a wonderful season here last year and made a lot of friends."

Once the Aussies have left New Road, Moody will be with them in spirit during their forthcoming involvement in the triangular one-day international series against England and Pakistan.

The tourists will then be turning their sights on the five-match Ashes series which Moody believes will be a hard fought battle.

"Across the board I would think the Australians would be favourites for the one-day internationals and the Test series.

"Their form over the last 12 months indicates that they are going to be hard to beat.

"The depth in their batting and bowling is exceptional and unless they do something horribly wrong through a long Test series it's hard to see them being beaten.

"The English side, though, will account for themselves very, very well, certainly twice as well as they have done in the past and it's going to be tough.

"The difference in the England Test side now and previously is they are playing as a team.

"That's been the biggest difference in their cricket over the last 12 months."