Calne cricket star Liam Dawson says he is fed up with being twelfth man for England Lions and is looking to prove his worth to the side in the first one day game starting tomorrow.

The 19-year-old Hampshire spinner travelled to New Zealand to meet up with the strong touring party on Friday but had to watch the second test between the teams from the sidelines.

“I was filling up drinks for three days in that match which wasn’t very exciting,” he said.

“I’m not sure if the pitches out here will suit my style of bowling or not but I’m just desperate to play.”

Dawson also expressed sympathy for Lions teammate Samit Patel, the man he was meant to replace in New Zealand.

The Nottinghamshire all-rounder was denied the chance to join the full England squad, having been adjudged to be overweight.

“I was already in the air when the news broke and didn’t find out until I touched down,” he said.

“I think he’s quite unlucky because he’s a serious cricketer but I just hope it hasn’t affected me at all.

“Gareth Batty has been called up in his place and it’s tough but that’s cricket.

“You have to be ready at all times should an opportunity come your way and hopefully I can do that in this one day series.”