Samit Patel surprised by England recall

Samit Patel has admitted that he thought his England career was over before being called up for the trip to the UAE to face Pakistan.

Surrey all-rounder Zafar Ansari was initially selected as the third spin option alongside Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid, but a dislocated finger ended his hopes of a Test debut in the three-match series.

The injury has allowed Patel to return to the squad for the first time in over two years, and the 30-year-old was quick to reveal his surprise.

"I was not expecting a Test call," he told BBC Radio Nottingham.

"I thought the door was closed on Test cricket. It's unfortunate for Zafar but I have to make the most of it.

"I think I will be behind Moeen and Rash to play, but I am just happy to get on the trip. I was planning to go on holiday to Dubai next week, so this is a pleasant surprise."

Patel has scored 109 runs and taken four wickets in his five Test matches.