Morgan's extended IPL stay led to England Test snub for New Zealand series

By Peter Hayter

Published: 13:59 EDT, 11 May 2013 | Updated: 14:06 EDT, 11 May 2013

England chief selector Geoff Miller says Eoin Morgan blew his chances of selection for the Test series against New Zealand by opting to stay and play a full season in the Indian Premier League.

Missing out: Eoin Morgan

Kevin Pietersen’s continuing absence through injury created a vacancy for the first Test at Lord’s, starting on Thursday. Confirming Jonny Bairstow had been given the nod ahead of James Taylor and Ravi Bopara, Miller said: ‘Eoin has effectively ruled himself out of contention.

‘He has made the decision to stay out there. That’s fine and he appreciates what that means for Test selection. Now he has got to show that he’s better than other players who might be ahead of him, who are on duty for the Lions.

‘We’re happy to say, “Right, if that’s what you want to do, you want to stay out there, you can stay there”. But if you want to get back, you’ve got to prove your worth. He needs big runs for Middlesex.’

Tim Bresnan and Graeme Swann return after elbow surgery but there is no place yet for Chris Tremlett, though England expect him and Pietersen to be in contention for the upcoming Ashes. Miller also challenged the players who escaped from New Zealand with a draw to live up to their ranking in the two-Test rematch.

He said: ‘It was very disappointing. We didn’t play to the capabilities they have shown in the past so that has got to be rectified. You say, “right, not good enough — improve”. That’s the message they have been given.’