Yorkshire's Gary Ballance admitted yesterday that he did not expect to be part of England’s Ashes squad but believes he is well prepared for the world of Test cricket.

The uncapped 23-year-old Yorkshire batsman earned a spot on the plane to Australia as cover for the middle order, presumably having edged Nottinghamshire’s James Taylor in the final analysis.

Zimbabwe-born Ballance, who is nephew to their former captain David Houghton, said he had not anticipated a call from national selector Geoff Miller.

But, having progressed through England’s performance programme and the second-string Lions side as well as making his one-day international debut against Ireland this month, he has no concerns about feeling out of place.

“I wasn’t expecting it and I was surprised when I got the call,” he said. “I am looking forward to it. It will be a great lifetime experience. It will be an honour to represent England at the highest level and it will be extra special in an Ashes series.”

All-rounder Ben Stokes and ex-Ireland pace bowler Boyd Rankin also make the squad, despite both yet to play a Test.

Left-arm spinner Monty Panesar, top-order batsman Michael Carberry and seamer Chris Tremlett have also been included.

Jonny Bairstow will act as back-up wicketkeeper to vice-captain Matt Prior.

Seamers Tim Bresnan and Graham Onions miss out on the 17-man squad, along with spinner James Tredwell and opener Nick Compton.