England outcast Graham Thorpe remains optimistic of a Test recall despite being overlooked for the opening clash of the five-Test series against South Africa.

The Surrey left-hander told the Daily Mail: "What gives me hope is the discussions I've had in recent days with David Graveney and the coach, Duncan Fletcher. They've given me nothing but positive vibes.

"Just because I haven't made the team for Edgbaston, I'm not giving up hope of ever playing for England again. I don't see this exclusion as the end of my England career or feel that the door has been firmly shut in my face.

Thorpe, who averages 41.88 from his 77 Tests to date, added: "Given the climate of English cricket and the way things can change quickly, I know I'll have a good chance of being picked if a vacancy arises."

21 Jul, 2003