TOM Westley says securing a place in the England Test team for the first time is “an amazing feeling”.

The 28-year-old was called up by the ECB yesterday for next week’s third test against South Africa, after Gary Ballance was ruled out through injury.

He is expected to line up at number three at the Oval next Thursday.

And he said it was a surreal feeling.

“I had a call from the head of selectors and it feels surreal at the moment,” said Westley. “It is an amazing feeling and there are so many emotions that go through your mind.

“Shock is the first one and then I felt chuffed and great pride.

“It is a dream come true and this is why you play cricket - to reach the pinnacle of your sport - and hopefully I will achieve that if I play next week.

“You can’t prepare for it and you only get your first call-up once.

“Essex comes first and I have a match to prepare for tonight but then I will sit down with my family and reflect on it all.”

Westley hit an unbeaten century against South Africa at the start of July, while representing England Lions. He is also averaging more than 53 in the County Championship this season, helping Essex to the top of Division One.

And Westley says he will back himself in an England shirt, but admits he will be nervous - albeit he is set to play in the same side as fellow Essex opener Alastair Cook.

“I have scored runs at Essex consistently in recent times and, when it comes to England, I don’t want to change things,” he said.

“I will try my best to treat it like another game. There will be nerves but I think that is a good thing.

“I get nerves before I bat now whether it be for the firsts or seconds. It shows I care.

“I played in front of a sell-out crowd at the Oval on Wednesday (in the T20 Blast against Surrey), and it will be another sell-out next week I am sure.

“I have not played for England before but I have had the best preparation and you take confidence from your success.

“Being in the same team as Cooky can only be positive,” he added. “I have had good success playing with him and if we could do that again for England that would be great.”