(COLOMBO) Graham Thorpe's decision to miss England's forthcoming Ashes tour was greeted with Australian indifference.

Thorpe has thrown England's Ashes preparations into more confusion by making himself unavailable at the eleventh hour for a trip which begins in a little over three weeks' time.

But Australian vice-captain Adam Gilchrist claims he and his team-mates are largely unconcerned about the latest turn of events surrounding the Surrey batsman, who has a chequered recent history when it comes down to his readiness to join winter tours.

''I really don't think that will change our thoughts or what we want to do,'' said Gilchrist. ''Obviously he is a class player, so you would think on paper it is going to weaken them a little bit - but they have done well without him too.''

The Australians clearly respect Thorpe's ability when his mind is on the job - but such is their recent domination of Ashes encounters they do not feel the need to worry yet about the make-up of England's squad.

''Thorpe has got good numbers against Australia and is one of England's top players, so it is a setback for them,'' Gilchrist conceded.

''It is obviously a very difficult time for him, and it was on and off again during the last Ashes series in England when he had injuries. But we do not spend a lot of time worrying about what their team is going to be. We will see what they turn up with for the 1st Test and deal with it.''

24 Sep, 2002