Jonathan Trott has claimed that he is in the right shape to handle the pressure of returning to the England Test side next week.
The Warwickshire batsman is set to open alongside Alastair Cook in the first Test against the West Indies on Monday, 18 months after leaving the Ashes tour with what has since been described as situational anxiety.
Trott insists that he is happier both on and off the field, and he is excited by the prospect of continuing his England career in Antigua.
"I'm just realising what's really important - having a balanced life. This game and the time you spend on it can be all-encompassing and enveloping so it's good to have a balanced view and I'm a huge believer in that now," the 33-year-old told reporters.
"Playing for England is something I wanted again but I didn't know if things would go my way or if I'd have this opportunity.
"I'm very pleased and happy to be here. It's exciting. Whenever you select someone there's an element of risk on whether they're ready. Nobody really knows I suppose but I feel great."
Trott has scored 3,763 runs in 49 Test matches at an average of 46.45.
Callum Mulvihill
