Bell has scored three centuries in successive Tests

"We're about to win a big series so we want to concentrate on getting 3-0 against a world-class side in Pakistan.

"It's an important match for us all - it's the last Test match before Australia," he told BBC Five Live.

"The performances in this will be key for Australia but we've got a lot of cricket yet."

Interview: England's Ian Bell

Tuesday marked 100 days to go before the first Ashes Test begins in Brisbane on 23 November.

But first England return to The Oval, the ground where last September they completed a series victory over Australia for the first time in 18 years.

Bell failed to score in either innings of that final Test and has endured a rollercoaster time since.

There is so much cricket you need a squad of 15 or 16 people - you're not going to play all year with 11 players Ian Bell

He was dropped at the start of the summer but recalled when Andrew Flintoff underwent ankle surgery and has scored centuries in three successive Tests against Pakistan.

Bell put his successful return down to extra work not only on technique but also on his presence at the crease, after being described as diffident during the Ashes.

"I've matured, I've learnt more, I've had some ups and downs and those experiences have helped me become a better player," he claimed.

"It wasn't all technical things - there were a lot of mental things, body language and having a bit more presence at the crease.

"It's not going to the extreme of being arrogant - it's just having that positive body language so when someone looks you in the eye you stand up."

With Flintoff expected back in the side in time for the Ashes, Bell faces a battle with Alastair Cook and Paul Collingwood for two batting places in the side.

But he played down direct comparisons, saying: "There is so much cricket you need a squad of 15 or 16 people - you're not going to play all year with 11 players.

"The way it is in the England side you've got to take your chance when you get it because there are so many good players around."