Batty earned Lions call - Rhodes

Gareth Batty played seven Tests for England

Gareth Batty has deserved his recall to the international scene, according to Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes.

Batty has been called into the England Lions squad to go to New Zealand, almost three years after his last one-day international for England.

But Rhodes said the player never gave up on international selection.

"He has a wonderful career ahead of him and he is not finished by any means," he said.

"Testimony to that is that a lot of spin bowlers like Robert Croft have been selected late on."

Gareth knows he's got to impress in New Zealand

Steve Rhodes

Batty's last one day international was against India in April 2006 and his last Test was the year before.

But Rhodes told BBC Hereford and Worcester the player has buckled down and worked hard at his game.

"He recognised he had to do a lot of work on certain things, and he's done that and got the rewards.

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

Batty has been picked for the Lions alongside two of his county colleagues, opener Stephen Moore and keeper Steven Davies, who will go to New Zealand before heading for the Caribbean in March to join up with the full England one-day party.

The Lions are due to play seven matches in New Zealand, two against the NZC Emerging Players, a two-match 'A' Test Series and three one-day internationals.