Leg-spinner Mason Crane says he is “very lucky and privileged” after called up to England’s Test squad for the first Test against the West Indies, starting at Edgbaston on 17 August.
The 20-year-old Crane along with batsman Mark Stoneman were the uncapped players named in England’s 13-man squad to tackle the Windies in the first of three Test matches at home.
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Crane, who made his international debut in T20Is against South Africa in June, admits he was surprised to be called up so soon but credits his time playing domestic cricket in Australia last year as a major stepping stone.
The Hampshire slow-bowler said: “To be honest I didn’t think I would be called up this summer. You see it written about and you dream in your head that maybe you could do but thought probably not this year.
“I have been very lucky. It has very much felt like it has come quickly.
“Since I was in Australia it has all felt like a bit of a whirlwind, that was an amazing experience, and since I have been back it has been the same. I am very lucky and privileged to be here now.
“When you start playing cricket you want to play for England and then play Test cricket for England. It is an amazing feeling to get called up and hopefully I put in some hard work now and I’ll get a game.
“Test cricket is the pinnacle and it is about getting my head down now and hopefully being in the side.”
