Michael Klinger has tipped Graeme Swann to send Australia into a spin in this winter's Ashes.

The South Australia captain hit 38 during his side's draw with England in Adelaide last week and was suitably impressed with Andrew Strauss's tourists. The former Australia Under 19 skipper was dismissed by James Anderson in both innings.

Spinner Swann took four wickets during the rain-affected match but not even the poor weather could dampen Klinger's praise of England's top bowler.

"Swann was fantastic because he came on to a wicket which didn't offer anything and still took four wickets," said Klinger.

"He is definitely the in-form spinner and that's something which Australia don't have at the moment.

"He is playing with so much confidence and that can make a huge difference at the top level although that can all change.

"But for me, just facing that England attack was a great experience and I think this Ashes series will be a great contest. England are the form side but Australia are very good at home and I think they'll improve on their recent performances.

"It's going to be really tight but it should be really exciting."

Klinger, 30, was close to selection for England's last visit down under where Andrew Flintoff's men were humiliated 5-0 by a rampant Australia.

In 1997, Klinger steered Maccabi Australia to gold at the Maccabiah Games. Now, the former Maccabi Melbourne batsmen is concentrating on his one-day prospects as well as captaining South Australia Redbacks.

"I think the selectors are looking at a new and younger generation for Test cricket so I don't think I'll get
the chance.

"I just have to keep playing well for the Redbacks and get some runs. Then, perhaps I'll get a chance in the one-dayers."