Gough is realistic about his World Cup chances

Essex bowler Gough, 35, made himself unavailable for the five-match one-day series because of family reasons.

Gough said: "I've toured regularly over the past 10 years and this is a chance to spend more time with my children.

"I would love to play in a World Cup-winning side but the selectors need to look at someone else in case I am not around for 2007."

Gough is the most capped player and leading wicket-taker in English limited-overs history, having taken 234 wickets in 156 matches.

And after 11 years in the England side, Gough also said now was a good time to rest his ageing body.

"I have played a lot of cricket over the last 12 months, I have had a few niggles, and I feel that a rest would be beneficial for me at this stage of my career," added the former Yorkshire player.

Chairman of selectors David Graveney said he fully understood Gough's reasons for missing the tour.

"Darren would like to make clear that he has not decided to retire from one-day international cricket," said Graveney.

"As selectors we have to respect his view. It is an opportunity for other people coming in. Let's see how the guys go in Pakistan before we think any further ahead."

Durham's 20-year-old quick Liam Plunkett has been elevated to the full squad alongside Hampshire's Chris Tremlett, who made his bow in the NatWest Series this summer.

Plunkett took 51 County Championship victims at around 30 apiece this season while he is also a handy tail-ender.