Tremlett eyes England call

Hampshire paceman fit and raring to go

By Joe Drabble   Last updated: 10th May 2008

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Tremlett: Ready and waiting

My body is a lot stronger than it was and last year I didn't really have too many injuries so I'm not really worried about that now.

Chris Tremlett
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Chris Tremlett believes he is ready to revive his international career after finally overcoming his torrid run of injuries.

The Hampshire paceman has been held in high regard by the England selectors in previous times and after an impressive display against New Zealand at the Rose Bowl on Friday, the 26-year-old is hoping he can force his way back into the international set up.

Tremlett caught the eye for England during three Tests against India last summer before his international career stalled and injury ruled him out of the recent tour of Sri Lanka.

However, after figures of 3-58 against the Black Caps for the England Lions, Tremlett strongly believes his injury worries are now behind him and he is ready to once again pit his wits against the world's elite.

"Over the last couple of years my body has held up a bit better," said Tremlett, whose chance to play in New Zealand was ruined by an untimely side strain.

"Having a side strain is quite unlucky, it's more the back injuries and things like that which are more serious and put you out for a long time and they are the ones you worry about.

Consistency

"My body is a lot stronger than it was and last year I didn't really have too many injuries so I'm not really worried about that now.

"All I'm concentrating on now is performing and trying to get some big hauls under my belt, trying to show some consistency and force my way in by taking lots of wickets and bowling at good economy rates, like you have to do in Test cricket."

England selector James Whitaker took his place amongst the Rose Bowl seats during the warm-up game with the Kiwi's, but whether Tremlett can force his way into the Test squad on Sunday remains to be seen.

Competition for places is fierce as Ryan Sidebottom and Stuart Broad's selection is all but guaranteed and Jimmy Anderson, Matthew Hoggard, Steve Harmison, Tremlett and the fit-again Andrew Flintoff are all battling to win recalls.

"There's lots of competition with Jimmy Anderson, who is bowling well, Hoggy, Harmy and myself all looking for a place," admitted Tremlett.

"It's all about being consistent and keep knocking on the door, but realistically I don't think I've got a chance of playing in the first Test because Freddie might be back as well so that's even more competition."