Knight hopes to profit from Hussain's misfortune

England batsman Nick Knight hopes he can exploit captain Nasser Hussain's misfortune and help fulfil a "burning ambition" in the second and final test against Pakistan.

The Warwickshire left-hander, called up to the England squad after Hussain broke his thumb in the first test, is desperate to shine at Old Trafford to earn himself a starting spot against Australia in the Ashes series.

"It's a burning ambition to play a test against Australia," he said. "That would be a massive goal for me. It's the only country I haven't played against."

The second test between England and Pakistan begins on Thursday, with the five-test Ashes series following a triangular one-day series next month.

The 31-year-old Knight has played 16 tests for his country, averaging 25.14, but is considered as something of a one-day specialist, playing 54 matches at the top of the order.

He added: "I hope it's not a one-off appearance for me. It's a bonus. An opportunity has arisen through injury to the captain and I think my form this season has helped get me here.

"I want to go out and get some runs and, if it leads to something, then it leads to something.

"I like to think...there's still loads more to come from me.

"My test cricket has been sporadic. It's hard when you don't get a long run."

Knight, speaking after an England training session, said: "I want to make an impact but I'll bat wherever. I think I'm batting at number seven and I have to make the most of it.

"The difference now, though, is I'm not piling pressure on myself... (earlier) I put myself under too much pressure. I was almost trying too hard and didn't play well."

But while Knight admits to having half an eye on Australia, England do not.

He added: "The guys know the best way to approach the Ashes series is by winning this game and taking a 2-0 win over Pakistan.

"I don't think the guys will be looking anywhere past that."

Mail Cricket Editor