Shane Watson has claimed that there is "huge hunger" within the Australia squad to retain The Ashes against England this summer.

Australia were dominant in a series whitewash when the two sides last met in the longest format, but Watson admits that the team are desperate to avenge the three successive defeats they have suffered in England.

"We've got a very strong squad that's going over to England," Watson told ESPN. "We've got good depth and the best part is everyone is in nearly career-best form right now which is most important as well.

"There is a huge hunger within the group because we know that we haven't won in England for the last three series. I've been involved in two of those. There's a big burning desire to be involved in an Ashes-winning campaign in England as well.

"We're as well prepared as we can be within our group. I'm incredibly excited about what's on the horizon with The Ashes and everyone else is as well."

Australia will meet the West Indies in two Test matches in June before travelling to England.