Pantomime Prior eases England to victory

BCB XI 151-8 England XI 155-3 (England XI won by 7 wickets)

(GETTY IMAGES)

Matt Prior must feel like he's playing a pantomime role at the moment. "He's behind you!" has been the cry from the moment Craig Kieswetter was fast-tracked into the squad on Saturday and the accompanying flurry of runs can have done nothing to ease Prior's sense of security. Even Kieswetter has said that he's right behind England's incumbent wicketkeeper.

Kieswetter took the gloves for the senior side for the first time yesterday, but it was Prior who enjoyed the more fruitful game as England completed another straightforward win over a Bangladesh Cricket Board XI in preparation for Sunday's opening one-day international.

Batting at No 3, Prior made an unbeaten 64 in 57 balls as England eased to victory by seven wickets in Fatullah. Kieswetter did not make it to the crease having earlier taken two catches, but his whirlwind century in the first warm-up game makes it likely that both will be included on Sunday with Prior keeping wicket – his glovework is considerably improved – and Kieswetter opening the innings. Jonathan Trott, another of England's South African-born players, is the man likely to miss out.

"There are selection issues," said Andy Flower, the England coach. "But that is a healthy place to be. Craig Kieswetter has got a very good chance. Matt Prior you saw bat very nicely today and Kieswetter obviously did on Tuesday. They're both good, efficient keepers. It's a good position to be in."

Alastair Cook, the captain, made another fluid half-century before retiring on 52 but Kevin Pietersen followed his golden duck by falling for six yesterday. Promoted to open, Pietersen lasted 14 balls before being caught at slip.

England had earlier restricted the BCB XI to 151 for 8 in a game reduced to 37 overs a side with Ryan Sidebottom, Tim Bresnan and James Tredwell taking two wickets apiece.