Cricket: January 2008 Archives

England have punished wicketkeeper Matthew Prior after a series of spilled catches in last year's defeat to Sri Lanka.

The Sussex gloveman has been dropped for the upcoming tour of New Zealand as England attempt to get back to winning ways.

Prior became the first England wicketkeeper to make a century on his test debut when he passed the three figures against the West Indies at Lords.

During the 2007 Indian tour of England, Prior was heavily criticised by many former players including Ian Chappell for his behaviour on pitch.

Andrew Strauss, who will bat for New Zealand state side the Northern Lights before the tour, returns to the Test squad after missing the Sri Lanka trip.

Kent spinner James Tredwell is named in the one-day squad for the first time.

Essex all-rounder Ravi Bopara is also included in the one-day party, but has been dropped for the Test series, with Middlesex batsman Owais Shah retaining his place in both squads.

England will play their first game in New Zealand on the 1st of February when they face Canterbury in Christchurch.

Their first game against New Zealand comes in the Twenty20 series on the 5th of next month in Auckland.