Australia's charismatic off-spinner Colin Miller is already teasing England's cricketers with a few verbal taunts.

The 37-year-old, famed for his eccentric behaviour on the field, won a call-up to the Australian squad to tour England this summer.

And already the veteran has launched an offensive on the English spinners, claiming that they bowl too defensively.

He told the Sydney Morning Herald: "Every other off-spinner I've seen tries to get the batsman out, and I don't think England's off-spinners do that.

"They're happy to bowl to a 6-3 leg-side field and wait for the batter to make a mistake. I think if I get a chance in England I'll do well."

Even though this is Miller's first Ashes tour, he does have plenty of experience of English conditions, having played several seasons in local league cricket.

If he is called into the Test team, he is almost certain to prove a big hit with the crowds. Last winter against the West Indies he dyed his hair blue and has promised to treat English crowds to a colourful summer.

Miller has taken 32 wickets at an average of 24.5 in his last six Tests, and has claimed nine wickets at 26.44 in three home Tests against England.

© CricInfo Ltd.