Panesar not upset by one-day squad exclusion

LUTON, England, Aug 10 (Reuters) England spin bowler Monty Panesar said today he was not upset at being left out of the one-day international squad for the ICC Champions Trophy in India later this year despite his recent test heroics.

''Of course, I want to play one-day cricket for England,'' said the 24-year-old who has taken 16 wickets in the first three matches of the current test series against Pakistan.

''Definitely. But right now I am just proud to be included and have a chance in the test team.

''I am very proud of that and I am very grateful that I have been given my opportunity with the test squad. I am not going to worry about anything else but try to make the most of this opportunity now.'' He said also that he was happy to learn that England coach Duncan Fletcher had praised him earlier this week and said he was the best bowler of his type in the world.

''I value what he says very much,'' said the Northamptonshire left armer who has quickly become a firm crowd favourite after becoming the first Sikh to play for England when he made his debut against India in March.

''He has kept me on my toes and kept me working on my game. I really value him as a coach so his comments I value very much, too.'' Panesar was in Luton, his birthplace, on Thursday to appear with an urban cricket roadshow aimed at cultivating the sport and developing interest in the game among young people.

REUTERS AY KP2134