GLENN McGrath is keeping his options open over a possible return to Worcestershire in 2006.

He says a final decision will not be made until the conclusion of the Australian season in February or March.

The news was confirmed today by McGrath's Sydney-based manager, Warren Craig, who admitted that, for the time being, thoughts of playing county cricket are way down his client's list of immediate priorities.

"Glenn is not really thinking about Worcestershire at the mo-ment because a busy international programme is about to start in Australia," said Craig.

"Australia are playing the Rest of the World next month followed by six Test matches against the West Indies and South Africa and the one-day tri-nations series.

"Australia are also going to South Africa in the New Year, so playing international cricket is his number one priority.

"Glenn will make a decision about Worcestershire at the end of the season when he knows how his body is feeling and whether he wants to play county cricket again or stay at home to rest with his family.

"We don't have any plans to initiate contact with Worcester but any approach from them will go thr-ough me anyway."

McGrath completed a clean sweep of Worcestershire's end-of- season awards in 2000.

The Australian pace star was named as Worcestershire Supporters' Association and the junior Black Pears Club's Player of the Year. He was also presented with the Dick Lygon award for the player considered to have done the most for the club both on and off the field.

Despite his age, the 35-year-old, named as the 1998 and 1999 Wisden Cricketer of the year, remains the spearhead of Australia's pace attack in both Test and one-day international cricket.

With his powers seemingly undiminished, a return to England is still a distinct possibility.