Lyth ready to rise to the challenge after Ashes reprieve

Lyth has struggled in the series, having scored six and 37 at Cardiff and then zero and seven in the 405-run drubbing at Lord’s.

But the Whitby man has confidence in his own ability and says: “I would have liked to have scored more runs, of course, but I have to look forward now and Edgbaston is another Test.

“I’m full of confidence in my ability, I just have to get past the new ball and then, hopefully, cash in and go big.”

Speculation was rife that Lyth would face the axe but the left-hander added: “There’s always going to be comments from the press and media, it’s a matter of opinion and it doesn’t bother me what people say about me at all.

“I’m delighted to get another go at Edgbaston and I feel there’s a big score just around the corner for me.”

Lyth is delighted that fellow Yorkshire batsman Jonny Bairstow has been picked after averaging 100.66 in the County Championship but also admitted his disappointment at the exclusion of Gary Ballance.

Lyth added: “I’m delighted for Jonny, he’s been in fantastic form for Yorkshire and he deserves his call-up.

“He’s been there and done it at the top level and has experience of Ashes cricket, too, which will help.

“It’s nice to see him back in the side, it’s an opportunity for Jonny to come in and show what he can do. I’m gutted for Gaz. He’s a good mate and it’s sad to see him left out.”

Lancashire gave their County Championship Division Two promotion hopes a huge boost as they claimed victory over Glamorgan by an innings and 157 runs at Colwyn Bay.

Although 21 overs were lost to rain and no play was possible before lunch on the final day, Lancashire still had 53 overs to spare as they eased to a convincing victory.

After reaching 181-5, Glamorgan capitulated, losing their last five wickets for 12 runs in 53 balls.

Lancashire’s victory, their seventh in 12 championship games this season, takes them 32 points ahead of Surrey in second place, although the southern county have a game in hand, but Lancashire are also 68 points ahead of Glamorgan in third.

Lancashire’s next four-day game is against Glamorgan at Old Trafford next month and a favourable result there could ensure they return to Division One at the first attempt.

Lancashire coach Ashley Giles was delighted with what he called a “fully-rounded” performance.