Monty back in England squad for Old Trafford Test

Panesar, 31, has been selected as part of the 14-man squad that will face the Australians at Old Trafford, Manchester from Thursday.

England take a 2-0 lead and are favourites going into the third Test but with Old Trafford well known for being a ‘spinning deck’, the England selectors have decided to draft another slow bowler in.

Panesar, whose last Test was in New Zealand back in March, but hasn’t played a home international since 2009, is relishing the opportunity of playing for England again.

He said: “I’m really excited to be joining up with the squad and be apart of a dressing room that’s doing well.

“When I was training with the boys at Lord’s I was given a hint that if I can get my bowling right and grab a few championship wickets, then if they decided to go with two spinners at Old Trafford here was a chance.

“I love playing for England in England and I really hope the opportunity comes at Old Trafford.

“The pace and the pitch suits my kind of bowling so I have always bowled well and have a good record at Old Trafford.”

The Sussex bowler featured in his side’s draw with the Australians last weekend, claiming 3-70 along with 0-40, and believes that it has helped him prepare for the call-up:

He added: “It is important that I show the England selectors that I can put the Australian batsmen under pressure.

“It’s been a really good opportunity in a warm-up game for me to get a little heads up on how they play and what their game plans are against me.”