Tudor: His last Test innings was 99 not out Photo © John Dawson

Alex Tudor flies out to Pakistan on Sunday evening full of confidence. He celebrates his 23rd birthday the day of his arrival (his 21st was spent in the air on the way to the Ashes tour) and he intends to make this year the one where he establishes himself as a Test cricketer.

"Obviously I'm delighted," Tudor told CricInfo. "I do feel for 'Freddy' (Flintoff) though. It's a big blow for him."

"The way I look at it is as an opportunity for me. I intend to stamp my authority on the tour, and force my way into the Test team. I'm not going out there just to be a squad bowler. I want to play Test cricket"

Tudor can identify with Flintoff's current plight. He was man of the match in his last Test, way back in July 1999, when his batting won England the game with a polished 99 not out. A future at Test level seemed assured, until injury intervened.

"It has been frustrating. I made my debut in 1998 and I've only played three Tests. I've never let England down either, but these injuries come along and you have to accept it."

"The tour of South Africa was particularly disappointing, but I'm a more confident cricketer now, and I'm fitter too."

"I have played a whole season this year, where as when I went out to South Africa I had a knee problem. A few other guys were injured and I had to bowl a bit sooner that I would have liked. That put be back a bit I think, and I didn't really get too much of a look in."

"This time I'm going to work really hard all the time. It can be difficult to stay motivated on a tour when there isn't much chance of playing, but I am determined to win a Test place."

He has enjoyed watching England's bowlers dominate Test matches though.

"They've been outstanding," he comments. "I think that central contracts have made a huge difference. They've been able to remain fit and fresh. I didn't think I'd get a central contract this year, but hopefully next summer will be different."

He does have some experience of conditions in Pakistan. He toured with the England Under 19's in 1996-97.

"I learnt that the new ball is vital," he says. " The shine leaves the ball within about 15 overs, so you have to make the most of it."

"That tour was hard, but it was successful and enjoyable. We played against a few guys who are in their Test team now, so I think I now what to expect."

"I know it will be tough out there," he comments. "There are few warm up games, and only three Tests to try and establish myself. Still, there are lots of the Surrey guys there too, and if we can contribute our inside knowledge of Saqlain, perhaps we can make it a bit easier?"

"Reverse-swing is not something I've an opportunity to do too much of. There aren't too many pitches in England that help it, but I do have the ability, and I should get plenty of opportunity to practise it in the next few weeks. Besides, if you want to be a world-class bowler you have to be able to play anywhere."

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