Hick's wicket is still highly prized

But Hick, whose 405 not out against Somerset at Taunton in 1988 is the highest score in the county's history, has not found motivation a problem.

Former England batsman Graeme Fowler says it is unfair to suggest that Hick's dominance with the bat is a reflection of the poor standard of county bowling attacks.

"Over the years, he's been exceptional at county level," Fowler told BBC Sport Online.

"Look at the consistency with which he's done it - nobody else has. If we agree that county cricket isn't that good, then why aren't more people doing the same sort of thing as Hick?"

Despite his failure to repeat his county form to Test cricket - notwithstanding six centuries - Worcestershire believe Hick has been harshly treated by England.

"He's been dropped nine or 10 times and whether you are Graeme Hick or Sachin Tendulkar, it's very hard to establish yourself in Test cricket when you are in and out of the side," Director Cricket Tom Moody commented earlier this year.

Tom Graveney: His total is next on Hick's hit-list

"If you look back over his Test career, the likes of Curtly Ambrose, Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis are all in fifth gear when they're bowling at Hicky."

Hick has known triumphs at Worcestershire - county champions in 1988 and 1989 and winners of two Lord's finals in the early 1990s.

And as captain, he is hoping to lead them into a new era of success.

But is his England career really over for good?

Hick has not been required by the selectors since the tour to Sri Lanka earlier this year.

He still harbours one last international ambition, however - to play in the 2003 World Cup in South Africa.

"That is my goal, to keep myself fit and be in with a fighting chance," said Hick.

And after England's dismal effort in the NatWest Series against Australia and Pakistan, that goal could yet become a reality.