Davies shocked by England call-up

Davies has scored over 3,000 first-class runs for Worcestershire

Worcestershire wicket-keeper Steven Davies has said he is amazed at his call-up to the England one-day squad.

The 22-year-old homegrown talent will compete with Matt Prior for the gloves for the five one-day internationals in the West Indies in March and April.

He told BBC Hereford and Worcester: "When the chairman of selectors told me I was in I had to ask him to repeat it.

"It was so hard not to tell anyone before the squad was announced, but I am delighted to get the chance."

Before travelling to the Caribbean, Davies will tour New Zealand with the England Lions alongside club colleagues Gareth Batty and Stephen Moore.

Batty has not played a Test match for three years, his last appearance in an England shirt having come in a one-day international in India in April 2006.

Steven Davies has had a great couple of years

Steve Rhodes

"The selectors spoke to me earlier in the year," said the off-spinner.

"They said they were keeping an eye on my form, but to get the call was a bit out of the blue."

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes said all three players deserve their call-ups.

"Steven Davies has had a great couple of years and both Steve Moore and Gareth have worked hard at their game.

"Gareth has another chance to show what he can do at this level. He recognised he had to do a lot of work on certain things, and he's done that and got the rewards.

"Graeme Swann bowled very well for England in India so Gareth knows he's got to impress in New Zealand."