England batsman James Taylor has expressed hope that he can force his way into the Test side during the England Lions tour of Sri Lanka.

The Nottinghamshire player scored a career-best 242 not out against Sri Lanka A as the Lions declared on 605-7 in their four-day match in Dambulla.

"I am absolutely over the moon," the 24-year-old told the ECB's official website. "I'd be lying if I said I came here not knowing it was a big tour for myself and everybody.

"Everybody is vying for a place in the Test team. It was a big tour for all of us and it was nice that I could get a few crucial runs.

"It is nice to come out, with a bit of pressure on my shoulders, when I had to score runs. Fingers crossed, I can get a few more in this series."

Taylor played two Tests for England against South Africa in 2011.

Written by
Steven Toplis