SHANE WARNE suggested yesterday that he could be playing county cricket next year and that the reason would not be simply financial.

The Australian leg-spinner said in a Sunday newspaper article under his name that several counties had expressed interest in signing him and that he owed it to himself to take ``a unique opportunity'' before the end of his career.

Though his asking price is likely to be higher than any overseas player to date, Warne, 27, said: ``My decision will depend on several things - my form, my body and which county would suit me best.

``So many of my Aussie team-mates have done their time in county cricket. All the guys have good things to say about it, but I prefer to find out for myself.''

The long delays for rain in the second Test produced more replays on BBC Television - and on the giant screen at Lord's - of Warne's so-called ball of the century, the swerving leg-break that bowled Mike Gatting at Old Trafford four years ago.

This incident, which guaranteed his fame in England, and his subsequent success, ensured that he would become a target for the county scene.

But Australia's cricket authorities vetoed his proposed 1996 season at Northamptonshire, citing the danger of wear and tear. He subsequently had to undergo a finger operation.

So far on tour Warne, captain of Victoria, is believed to have spoken to four counties, certainly including Nottinghamshire.