Panesar ready for 'massive' day

Panesar had played just 11 Twenty20 games before this season

Should England manage to win the Ashes, regardless of whether he plays at The Oval or not, do not underestimate the contribution of Monty Panesar.

His final-day performance with the bat, rather than the ball, helped England escape from the first Test at Cardiff with a draw and ensure that, to date, Australia have been unable to take a lead in the series.

Indeed, should captain Andrew Strauss lift the urn and Panesar not be in the England side, it could be argued that the left-arm spinner has had the greatest influence on the result of any Ashes series having only played one Test - barring any heroics from Mark Ramprakash, Rob Key, Jonathan Trott or any other benefactor of the middle-order lottery.

But, for now, The Oval can wait. Panesar's attentions are fixed firmly on the finals day of the Twenty20 Cup, and doing all he can to see Northants to victory.

"It's a massive day," the 27-year-old told BBC Radio Northampton.

"It's been a long time since Northants won a one-day trophy, but hopefully this can be a special day for us."

A "long time" is right. It is 17 years since Northants lifted what was then the NatWest Trophy, but Panesar feels that they have a side capable of ending that run, in what is their first appearance in the last four of the Twenty20 Cup.

We've got a good 15 players who might make into the final 11, which is a healthy position for us to be in

Monty Panesar

"We've got the right blend of youth and experience, which has helped us to get this far," said Panesar.

"Not many of people know our style of play or the way we approach Twenty20 games.

"We probably don't get the exposure that some of the other, bigger, teams get, and that could be an advantage for us."

The former Loughborough University student might just be on to something, despite the size of the task that awaits Northants at Edgbaston on Saturday.

First, they must overcome Sussex, who are chasing the only major trophy that has eluded them in the past three years, in the semi-final.

If successful, they would then meet either Kent or Somerset. Rob Key's Kent were beaten finalists in 2008 and winners in 2007, while Somerset were the champions of 2005.

Panesar (right) and James Anderson defied the Australians at Cardiff

But, judging by the talent in their ranks, Northants have nothing to fear.

Wicketkeeper Niall O'Brien starred for Ireland in the ICC World Twenty20, while all-rounders Nicky Boje, Andrew Hall and Ian Harvey boast huge international experience.

South African paceman Johannes van der Wath brings fire and brimstone with the ball, as well as being able to hit it out of the park, with Rob White and Riki Wessels both enjoying good campaigns with the bat.

"We've got a good 15 players who might make it into the final 11, which is a healthy position for us to be in," said Panesar.

"For a long time we've been trying to get a side together just to be competitive, but now the club is in a really good position."

But, despite all the talent that surrounds him, Panesar remains the biggest celebrity in the Northants side.

An unlikely cricketing star, he shot to international fame with his performances in India and Australia, his leaping celebrations, comedy fielding and, at times, confused batting, instantly endearing him to fans.

606: DEBATE

How do you think Northants will fare at Twenty20 finals day?

"When I play for Northants, I just try and do my job," said Panesar.

"I showed lots of energy and commitment when I played for them as a youngster and carried that through when I played for England."

The mention of England, even on the eve of potentially his biggest day as a county cricketer, and a recall to the national side is never far from his mind.

The squad for the fifth Test will be named on Sunday morning, with Panesar likely to be included if a second spinner is required.

"I'll just wait and see," said Panesar. "If the opportunity comes, I'll be ready."

Being ready could involve lifting the Twenty20 Cup, but if he does not make if to The Oval, remember the importance of his one-Test cameo.

After all, in 2005 it was enough to earn Paul Collingwood an MBE.