Steve Waugh is determined to play as full a part as possible for Australia over the coming months following a prolonged break from the game.

Although still captain of the Test team, Waugh has not played since he and brother Mark were dropped from the one-day squad in March.

Although he has taken the opportunity to spend time with his family, Waugh has also undergone minor surgery to clear up an ankle problem and put himself through a rigorous training programme.

He wants to regain his one-day place before next February's World Cup in South Africa and before that, hopes to help Australia to another Ashes victory over England.

"There's not necessarily any position up for grabs and I'm just trying to work my way back into it," said 37-year-old Waugh.

"Time away from cricket has been good. I've been doing some so-called normal things and being an average person.

"But it's made me feel really keen for this season - it's been a long time since I've had an extended break."

Australia are due to return to action with a triangular one-day series against Pakistan and New Zealand in August.

But that remains in doubt because of their reluctance to visit Pakistan because of the ongoing military tension with India.

Alternative venues are currently being considered.

After that, they will then take part in the ICC Champions Trophy event in Sri Lanka, featuring all the major cricket nations, before returning home to start preparing for the Ashes.