VIKRAM Solanki has spoken of his delight after winning a recall to the England cricket set-up for next week's one-day series in Kenya.

The Worcestershire batsmen was included in the 14-man squad to play in the ICC Trophy series in Nairobi after opener Nick Knight was forced out through injury.

Solanki, who toured South Africa and Zimbabwe with the England one-day squad in the winter, was hastily packing today after receiving the call yesterday.

He said: "I am obviously delighted and looking forward to the trip. I am very pleased to be back in the England set-up but at the same time very disappointed for Nick. I hope he makes a quick recovery from injury."

The call-up was a massive boost for Solanki and an assurance that he is still very much in Duncan Fletcher's long-term plans for the next World Cup.

Solanki had slipped back in the pecking order despite an encouraging displays in eight England appearances against the Springboks and Zimbabwe.

But his call-up yesterday underlines the faith coach Fletcher has in him as England attempt to build a side for the 2003 World Cup in South Africa.

"Vikram made a good impression with the one-day squad in South Africa and Zimbabwe last winter, and this presents him with a further opportunity to establish himself at senior level," said chairman of selectors David Graveney.

"Nick Knight is an important member of our one-day squad, and this is deeply disappointing news for all concerned. Although his injury is not a long-term one, we felt it would be too much of a risk to retain him."