Hoggard (right) lost his place to James Anderson in New Zealand

Axed England bowler Matthew Hoggard says the selectors were vindicated when they dropped him and Steve Harmison for the last two Tests in New Zealand.

England bounced back from 1-0 down to win the series 2-1, but Yorkshire stalwart Hoggard now wants his place back in the national team.

Hoggard told BBC Sport: "I don't know if I have a point to prove.

"But hopefully I can get back into my best form and hopefully that's good enough to get back in the side."

Only five Englishmen have taken more wickets than Hoggard's 248 in Test cricket.

But the 31-year-old was deemed surplus to requirements after struggling through 38 overs on a flat wicket at Hamilton in early March, taking 1-151.

Nevertheless, it was a surprise when he lost his place, and Hoggard said he would do his best to put in some big performances for Yorkshire to keep his name in the frame.

"I think I didn't show my best in one game [the Hamilton Test]," he said. "It's a big kick in the teeth.

"But the selectors took a decision to drop me and Stephen and they were vindicated.

"I'll be plodding in up the hill, shutting my eyes and wanging it down like I normally do.

"Putting on a Yorkshire shirt is enough motivation for me."