James Taylor backed for Test cricket by coach

The decision to include James Taylor in the England Test squad has been praised by Nottinghamshire's director of cricket.

Taylor was called up by the ECB for the second Test against South Africa this week after Ravi Bopara pulled out of contention for the match due to personal reasons.

Mick Newell, who has coached Taylor since the batsman's move from Leicestershire at the beginning of this season, believes that the 22-year-old has the ability to succeed on the international stage.

Newell told Nottinghamshire's official website: "I think James was next in line for a Test call given the performances he has maintained in recent years in county cricket and for England Lions.

"He is a good technical cricketer, he prepares himself very well, he knows how to occupy the crease against quality bowlers and I have seen improvement in his game this season."

Taylor could make his Test debut in the match beginning on Thursday at Headingley.