WORCESTERSHIRE'S Graeme Hick jets out with England tomorrow with a clear message to the Sri Lankans: "We're determined to carry on where we left off in Pakistan."

Hick was one of England's heroes when they won the third and final Test to clinch an historic series win against Pakistan last month.

His high-pressure 40 did not look much on paper but in the circumstances -- a darkening sky and a threatening Waqar Younis -- it was a vital contribution in sending Pakistan crashing to defeat.

And it's that kind of determination the 34-year-old wants to reproduce in the forthcoming Test series and one-day internationals in Sri Lanka.

He is aware, however, that he faces a tough challenge, although England are in bouyant mood after their memorable Pakistan triumph.

"Sri Lanka are a very difficult side in their own backyard. It's like when we set out to Pakistan. We felt we could do it, but we knew we would have to play well and work very hard. I think it's going to be the same again.

"They are a very good one-day side on their own turf where they have learned their cricket. It's up to us to adapt and perform."

Hick, however, is anxious to have a better time with the bat than he did in Pakistan when six Test innings produced just 99 runs.

His 40 in the last dramatic match, however, proved crucial and was a day he rates as one of his best since being involved with the England set-up.

"I'm now looking forward to the Tests and one-dayers in Sri Lanka. Obviously, I'd like to get a few runs if I can in the first couple of tour games to make sure I can try and get into the side for the first Test."

Hick met up again recently with his England team-mates who are keen to get the tour underway.

"Obviously, the last day in Pakistan made everything about it so different. We met the other day for the first time since we came back and you could tell that the guys still had the smiles on their faces. Everybody is looking forward to the challenge.