Prior drops out, England calls Buttler

London, July 22 (IANS) England cricket selectors Tuesday replaced an out-of-form wicketkeeper Matt Prior with rookie Jos Buttler in the 13-member squad for the third Test against India starting Sunday at Southampton.

Buttler will keep wicket for England in the Test after Prior's decision to miss the rest of the series in order to find fitness

Buttler is the only player in the squad uncapped at Test level. The 23-year-old wicketkeeper batsman has played 33 ODIs and 36 T20s for England in his three year international career.

India currently leads the five match series 1-0 after a 95 run victory at Lord's and a draw at Trent Bridge.

"The result of the second Test at Lord's was very disappointing. One or two of our players had encouraging performances however it is vital that the squad learns quickly and arrives in Southampton this week refreshed and ready to perform well in what will no doubt be another tough Test match," said national Selector, James Whitaker.

Whitaker congratulated Buttler who comes into the squad following some very exciting limited overs performances for England and a good record with Lancashire this season and fully deserves this opportunity.

"Matt Prior has contributed a huge amount to the England side over the years and should be proud of his record throughout his 79 Tests. He has decided to take time out of the game to work on his fitness and we will continue to follow his progress over the coming months," he added.

England squad: Alastair Cook (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Gary Ballance, Ian Bell, Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler, Chris Jordan, Liam Plunkett, Sam Robson, Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Chris Woakes