England wicket-keeper Matt Prior has put the disappointment of missing out on a central contract behind him and targeted glory at the World Twenty20. The 25-year-old was not among the list of 12 contractees on Monday, but will go into England opener against Zimbabwe on Thursday as first-choice keeper. And he told BBC Sport: "Not having a contract won't alter my approach a jot. "The squad is full of confidence and momentum and you enter any competition looking to win it - simple as that."
England are considered by many as one of the favourites for the tournament in South Africa. Having shown real signs of progress in completing their 4-3 one-day series win over India at the weekend, the squad has been further boosted by the arrival of Twenty20 specialists Darren Maddy, James Kirtley and Chris Schofield. And Prior believes England's experience in the short form of the game gives them a real edge. "There's a lot more to Twenty20 cricket than just going out there and trying to slog - there's a technique and a way to play in this form of the game that works," he said. "That's why having the likes of Maddy, Kirtley, Schofield and, of course, Luke Wright in our squad is such a massive asset.
"Obviously there are some fantastic sides around the world but we're also a great side - and the face with have players with massive experience in this format is definitely an advantage." The competition also provides an immediate opportunity for the Sussex gloveman to put his poor form with the bat in the series against India behind him, and firmly establish himself on the international scene. He said: "I see this competition as a really big opportunity to put in some good performances and kick-start my winter. "I've said all along you can't worry about other people or whether your place is under pressure. "I just want to go out there and help England win cricket matches, and I have full belief in my ability to do so."
Source: BBC Sport
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