Tredwell gained his one Test cap for England in Dhaka in March

Kent spinner James Tredwell believes a "slow start" to the season cost him a place in England's Ashes squad.

The 28-year-old, who took 37 championship wickets in 2010, has been named in the England performance squad.

Tredwell said: "Having been involved last winter I am slightly disappointed to miss out on the full squad."

"I didn't do myself any harm with my performances in Bangladesh but I guess I have lost out after a slow start to the season."

Monty Panesar was preferred as back-up for Graeme Swann ahead of Treadwell who will be with the performance squad in Australia at the same time as the Ashes are played.

So far he has played one Test match, against Bangladesh in March, and two one-day internationals on the same tour.

"I'm pleased to be going to Australia with the performance squad and I am in the frame if someone suffers an injury or loss of form," he said.

Graham Johnson, Kent's Chairman of Cricket, congratulated Tredwell on being included in the performance squad.

He said: "We are delighted that James continues to be in the thoughts of the selectors. He is forming a key part of our plans for the future and the experience that he is gaining with England is great for him and the club."

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