Hughes hoping for Ashes recall with 'good performance' in Northampton

Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes is reportedly hoping to put himself in contention for the fifth Ashes Test at The Oval, with a good performance against the England Lions in the two-day tour match in Northampton.

According to News.com.au, after scoring 81 and featuring in a record 163-run last wicket partnership with Ashton Agar at Trent Bridge, Hughes subsequently made 1,1 and 2 and was dropped for the fourth Test at Durham.

However, the situation looks hopeful for Hughes again with a vacancy in the side following all-rounder Shane Watson suffering a minor groin injury.

Although he was disappointed at missing out on selection for Durham, Hughes, however, said that he respected the selectors' decision and hoped to get back into the side sooner or later, hinting at the fifth and final Test, as he had good feedback from selector Rod Marsh and coach Darren Lehmann.

According to Hughes, he is still in a good form unlike the 2011 New Zealand series in which he was dropped after a two poor performances, adding that he felt that the New Zealand series was tougher than the current Ashes series.

Hughes also said that he is not very concerned despite his poor performances in the second and the third Tests as he scored one of his better Test innings at Trent Bridge, although he admitted that the selectors were trying to find the best combination for the Durham Test and so he was dropped due to his performance at Lord's.

Although Hughes said that he would love batting at No.3, he is not disappointed even if he is selected in another position, adding that he is confident that Usman Khawaja would do a good job of batting in the position.