Morgan excited by England cricket bow

Irish cricketer Eoin Morgan has spoken of his excitement at his inclusion in the England Test side for this week’s contest against Bangladesh.

Morgan starred in England’s Twenty20 World Cup victory in the West Indies over the past month, when his off-the-cuff style proved perfectly suited to the shortest form of the game.

He still awaits his debut for the Test side, however, and hopes to grasp his chance if he makes the final 11 for the first Test against Bangladesh, which starts at Lords on Thursday.

“It’s a very exciting time in my career,” said Morgan. “I’ve been part of a very successful England team at Twenty20 level which has been great, but the step-up to Test level means everything to me.

“I was surprised to get the phone call. When I saw the number I was wondering what it was going to be out. It’s every kid’s dream to get a phone call like that.”

Asked whether he would feel any extra pressure to prove himself in the Test arena, he said, “I don’t think so. I’m going to play as I’ve always done in the longer form of the game.

“I’m looking forward to it and hopefully I’ll make an impact. I don’t think I’ll play any of the more unusual shots but if the circumstances are right, I won’t shy away from it.”