Ramps ready for Oval if required - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Ramps ready for Oval if required

Mark Ramprakash has declared his availability for the final Ashes Test against Australia, claiming he would "cherish" being involved in The Oval showdown.

England need to win the final Test, which starts in south London next week, to regain the Ashes - with the teams locked at 1-1 after four Tests.

He has not played for his country since 2002 but told Sky Sports News: "I've been strongly linked with England, so I've been there before - but I always hoped my performances on the field will do my talking. I've not spoken to (national selector) Geoff Miller but I'm available. I think any cricketer would be."

He added: "It's a wonderful showpiece occasion we've got on our hands, for it all to come down to this game now ... I think any player would accept that challenge and cherish and savour being in that match, for the rest of your career."

The Surrey batsman believes he has plenty to offer should a recall be forthcoming, despite not playing for his country for seven years, having excelled consistently in the county game.

He continued: "A lot's happened since I played my last Test at 32 in New Zealand. That was a difficult trip.

"I struggled a bit. But so did a lot of the players - there were some juicy pitches there. A line was put through my name at that stage, but I feel I've improved as a player.

"People still perceive me as if it's 1995. But people constantly evolve and develop, and I'm no different. If I'd known 10 years ago what I know now I'd be in a much better position.

"I've completed a level four coaching course and I really enjoyed it. I've had 14 weeks in a high-profile reality TV show (Celebrity Come Dancing), which was a great experience, as well as the cricket - where I've looked to improve and learn."

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