AUSTRALIAN batsman Phil Jaques is struggling to understand why he has been overlooked for Test honours this winter - but that is not stopping him from looking forward to another productive season for Worcestershire next year.

Jaques, widely regarded as Australia's next opening batsman-in-waiting, has committed himself to another year at New Road but admits he cannot look beyond 2007 at this stage.

"I love playing for Worcestershire and I've enjoyed a lot of success in county cricket but I have to reassess my situation on a year-by-year basis," said Jaques.

"If the body holds up and I am playing well, it's possible I might sign a new contract to stay at Worcestershire beyond 2007.

"But a lot depends on my international prospects for Australia," he added.

"I've always said that I can bat anywhere in the top six but the selectors are looking at me as a specialist opener, so until there is an opportunity to displace Matthew Hayden or Justin Langer there is nothing I can do except score big runs for New South Wales and Worcestershire."

Jaques believes Worcestershire can realistically aim to win a trophy next summer but he insists there is no room for complacency.

The prolific left-hander sees no obvious weaknesses in the New Road team but warns the depth of the squad could be tested if there are injuries to key players.

"I don't think we should fear anyone in the first division of the County Championship or the Pro40 competition," added Jaques.

"We don't have a big squad so if there are injuries that could be a problem but it's up to all of the players to pull together as team.

"All-rounder Roger Sillence had a good season last year but we need him to build on that next summer and if Steve Davies continues the way he is going, he should get picked to play for England.

"Daryl Mitchell is also a guy with a lot of talent so the future looks very bright for Worcestershire."

After the Australian domestic season, Jaques is likely to be included in Australia's World Cup squad and is also in contention for a yet-to-be arranged one-day international tournament in New York which could force him to miss the start of the county season.

"I am trying not to think too much about what the selectors will do," said Jaques. "I don't think I have anything left to prove."