Ambrose keen to seize chance

Tim Ambrose is eager to make the most of his call-up for the upcoming tour of New Zealand

Tim Ambrose is confident he can solve England’s wicketkeeping problem after being called up to the Test and one-day squads to tour New Zealand.

The 25-year-old Warwickshire player was included in a 16-man party in place of Matt Prior, who was dropped after struggling with the gloves on the recent trip to Sri Lanka.

Phil Mustard also features in both squads, with chairman of selectors David Graveney admitting the Durham player is likely to feature in the one-day series, while Ambrose is in pole position to play in the Tests.

“I’m a wicketkeeper-batsman as everyone knows and it’s my job now to step up and try and fill that spot as well as I can and that’s what I’ll be aiming to do,” Ambrose said.

“There’s competition for all places and I think that’s healthy. It’s always good to have someone behind pushing you on and making sure you’re doing everything right and doing the best you can.

“If I get the chance then hopefully I can help England win matches."

Ambrose was part of the England Lions touring party to India last year and feels his performances there acted as proof he was ready for a bigger stage.

Ambrose will compete with Phil Mustard for a place in the Test and ODI teams © Getty Images

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“I think it was confirmation more than anything else that I am ready to take on the challenge at the next level,” he told Sky Sports News. “It was a valuable experience and I feel better for it.”

Graveney revealed that Prior’s indifferent form with the gloves during the Test series in Sri Lanka was the reason for his exclusion.

Prior came in for criticism for errors behind the stumps, although he returned home as England’s second highest run-scorer and boasting an average of 43.

“I assure you the wicketkeeper has been a well discussed area since Alec Stewart retired,” Graveney added.

“It was a difficult decision; all decisions are difficult. We felt in this instance, as well as he has batted, there are areas of his wicketkeeping he needs to work at and that’s why we made that decision.

“It’s a double factor. Wicketkeeping is crucial and so is the ability to score runs. I’m sure Matt will be back.”

Graveney admitted he has been unable to speak to Prior to inform him of the decision.

“I speak to players that have been left out,” he said. “In this instance I have been unable to contact Matt Prior.

“I have been working closely with his agent, Alec Stewart, but I regret sincerely that that phone call hasn’t been made. When I speak to him I’ll tell him why we made the decision.”