Taylor has played 15 Tests and 122 one-day internationals for England

England batter Claire Taylor says the early success of the men's side in the Ashes will encourage the women's side on their own tour down under.

The men lead 1-0 after two Tests, while the women are looking to defend the trophy they have held since 2005.

Taylor told BBC Berkshire: "To see so much of it on the TV and in the papers and to hear people talking about it really does encourage us as well.

"It gets us excited, it gets us ready for our tour."

England, who are the current world champions in the 50-over format and won the World Twenty20 in 2009, leave for Australia on 28 December.

They play three one-day internationals and five Twenty20 games before defending their version of the Ashes in a four-day Test at Sydney's Bankstown Oval.

"It has been a successful few years, especially 2009," added Taylor.

"There are a few new players who've come into the squad, so it's an important time for us to go away and play against one of the really good teams in the world.

"They're at home, with their home support and they're in the middle of their cricket season so it's going to be a really good tour for us."

Taylor, 35, was player of the tournament when England won the World Cup in Australia in 2009 and soon after she became the first woman ever to be named as one of Wisden's cricketers of the year.

However, despite being the oldest player in the touring party, she has not yet entertained any thoughts of retirement.

"I'm certainly carrying on," said Taylor. "There are still some important things to do in the game and still plenty to teach the youngsters."

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