WORCESTERSHIRE have poured cold water on reports from Australia that they may have to re-negotiate their contract with Glenn McGrath.

McGrath is likely to be selected for a new one-day series against South Africa next August, which will be played at a new indoor stadium in Melbourne.

He will therefore miss several Worcestershire matches in addition to his late arrival at the start of next season, when he will be playing in another one-day series in South Africa.

But Worcestershire have spoken to McGrath's agent Warren Craig and have been assured that there will be no major problems with his contract.

County secretary Mike Vockins said: "We anticipate it will be a short visit for Glenn in August, similar to when Tom Moody played for Australia last year."

He will miss three Benson and Hedges Cup games at the start of the season, the Championship match against Essex on August 9, a possible NatWest Trophy quarter-final and two CGU matches.

However, McGrath should be back for the Championship clash with Warwickshire on August 22.