Gary Ballance defiant following Ashes criticism

Gary Ballance has issued a defiant message to his critics after losing his place in the England team for the third Ashes Test.

The Yorkshire batsman has been criticised by the likes of Michael Vaughan and Kevin Pietersen, who have questioned his technique.

Speaking to reporters after his match-winning 69 for Yorkshire against his former club Derbyshire, the 25-year-old said: "A lot of people are telling me I need to change, but what I've had, and what I've got now, is how I've got to playing for England in the first place.

"My whole career, it's how I've made runs, and I don't think a few bad games should suddenly change things, so I'm not changing anything.

"I'm obviously looking to improve still, looking at areas I can improve as a player, and hopefully I'll keep improving and developing."

Ballance has been replaced in the England side by Yorkshire teammate Jonny Bairstow, who will bat at number five, with Ian Bell moving up the order to number three.