Panesar misses out on England recall

Panesar, who hasn’t played a Test since July 2009, had staked a real claim by taking 5-57 in the warm up win over a Pakistan Cricket Board XI, but despite many calling for England to play two spinners, they went with just the one in Graeme Swann.

The 29-year-old insisted he still had a future with England and felt moving to Sussex from Northamptonshire and playing in Australia had helped.

He said: “I’ve always stayed hungry to play Test cricket.

“That’s why I moved to Sussex, to better my game and take on a major responsibility – leading the bowling attack.

“I think going overseas, to Sydney, helps with your self-belief. My confidence has grown, and that definitely helps your bowling.”

On his performance in the warm-up match, Panesar continued: “It was nice to chip in with a few wickets. I enjoyed bowling a lot of overs and it gave me a chance to familiarise myself with the conditions.

“I just want to take my chance when it comes and be a part of this successful England team. I’m hungry to play Test cricket – and if or when the opportunity presents itself, I’ve got to be ready.’’

Swann himself had backed Panesar’s inclusion prior to the match as he said: “I like the rhythm of spinners at each end and I’d go with two in this part of the world.

“He’s shown he can be a matchwinner when he’s back to his best. I spin the ball in, he spins it away and a partnership like that can be formidable.”