SYDNEY, Jan 4: Michael Vaughan is convinced he can make a contribution in England's one-day cricket series against Australia and New Zealand later this month. The 32-year-old, who captained England to Ashes glory in 2005, has not played for his country since December that year following a serious knee injury.

He was named in one-day squad and said: “I feel ready. Mentally I am very fresh, which is important at our level. I believe I am a better person and I hope I will be a better player.”

Even before his injury problems, Vaughan's form in one-day arena was a cause for concern. In 74 matches he has yet to score a century, averaging 28 with a top score of 90, which was against Zimbabwe in December 2004.

Having relinquished the Ashes without Vaughan, England will hope to restore some pride and improve upon dismal one-day record when triangular series begins against Australia on Jan 12.

Vaughan yet to be confirmed as skipper for campaign said: “No-one has a given right to be England captain. I'd love to carry on where I left off - but it was a long time ago.”—Agencies