Supporters of Marcus Trescothick would deny that he has anything to prove but Australia will see it differently.

The 29-year-old averages well over 40 at Test level but perceived technical weaknesses and a poor Ashes record mean that he will again be a particular target for Glenn McGrath this summer.

Trescothick took some time to fulfil the potential highlighted by his successful captaincy of the England Under-19 side, only making the breakthrough at the highest level after first starring for the one-day team.

But he made an immediate impact against West Indies in 2000 and played in the landmark series victories in Sri Lanka and Pakistan before being brought to earth with a bump in the 2001 Ashes defeat.

A reluctant tourist, Trescothick has not always coped well with the mental rigours of playing and travelling abroad but averages 60 over the last three English summers.

It is that kind of form Michael Vaughan will be demanding from his vice-captain, who as a hard-hitting left-hander invites comparison with his opposite number Matthew Hayden.

The extraordinary impact of Andrew Strauss has effectively neutralised the need for a senior opener and some mooted the idea of dropping Trescothick down the order after a patchy start to the winter tour of South Africa.

But he hit back with a match-winning 180 in the decisive Wanderers Test and should be considered a foundation stone rather than a utility man in England's plans.

His steady voice as Vaughan's deputy and an admirable year at slip trying to second guess Geraint Jones further strengthens his claims.

A strong driver of the ball and a fearsome prospect once settled at the crease, Trescothick still has something to prove this summer but has earned the right to do so from the front.