There is a lack of understanding for leg-spin: Salisbury

England team are hoping that a sense of belonging will help Ian Salisbury to emerge as Test class leg spinner after his recall to the squad for the winter tour to Pakistan and SriLanka. The leg spinner was supposed to have no chance of playing for England again after faring very badly on his last appearances against South Africa and Sri Lanka two years ago. Hansie Cronje and Sanath Jayasuriya hammered out of the attack in those series.

England had abandoned the idea of leg spin after this until they found Chris Schofield who was handed a central contract but was overlooked for the winter tour thereby paving way for Salisbury. England coach Duncan Flethcher and captain Naseer Hussain feel Salisbury's performance in county championship and the confidence he received after being named for the England squad could transform into success at the International level.

"We've watched him during the course of the summer and we think his mental strength has improved to be able to bowl people out in the second innings," claimed chairman of selectors David Graveney. He believes that Ian has made strides sufficiently and consistently for Surrey and hence deserves another chance.

Salisbury's previous failures at the International level are mainly contributed by the disappointment of being rejected seven times after making his debut only eight years ago. Salisbury said "My family, friends and colleagues have seen me bowl over the years and know how well I can bowl and they've been just as disappointed as I haven't produced what I can do and hopefully this will be my chance to turn it around."

While the leg-spinner says that it is a big thing to play for England, he feels sympathetic for the overlooked Schofield. "Chris has huge ability and huge talent for the future and I think there is a lack of understanding for leg-spin in this country. I've learnt far more about leg-spin in the last four years by going to Australia, mixing with Terry Jenner and talking to Warney," said Salisbury.

He added "The culture in Australia is for leg-spin bowling whereas in this country there seems to be a total misunderstanding from everybody about it." He was hopeful that people in England would be more understanding about leg spin and is certain that the mistakes he and the people controlling him made would not be repeated with Schofield.