Adams sings Prior's praises

Matt Prior averaged over 40 with the bat during his time with England © Getty Images

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Chris Adams is pleased to have his Sussex side strengthened by the return of wicketkeeper-batsman Matt Prior - but admits he does not expect him back for long.

The LV County Championship holders saw their match against MCC at Lord’s rained off and will now turn their attention to their opening fixture against Hampshire at the Rose Bowl, which starts on Wednesday.

Prior made eight and a patient 44 in his two innings in the curtain-raiser as well as holding two catches ahead of what promises to be a decisive season in terms of his international career.

The 26-year-old was dropped by England coach Peter Moores for England’s tour of New Zealand after his wicketkeeping came under heavy scrutiny.

Warwickshire’s Tim Ambrose emerged with his reputation enhanced after the Test series against the Black Caps, when he kept well and hit a decisive 102 in the second Test in Wellington.

Prior had even spoken of the possibility of hanging up his gloves for England and playing as a specialist batsman, but Adams is certain Prior will be back behind the stumps for England in the near future.

“I am delighted that Matt will be back involved with Sussex and I can also report that he is in great nick, which will benefit us immensely,” Adams said.

Chris Adams expects Sussex team-mate Prior to regain his place in the England set-up

“His attitude throughout the whole situation of him losing his place in the England side has been impeccable but I’m sure he will back there soon.

“The bottom line is that he has walked away from that experience with a batting average above 40 and probably by his own admission a couple of disappointing days behind the stumps.

“The other days behind the stumps I think he was exceptional - he kept well and took some amazing catches.”

Adams is confident that Prior has all the attributes to be a success in international cricket, but has urged Moores to be patient with him.

Prior will come back mentally stronger after a period out of England colours, according to Adams.

“What I think England have to recognise is that in Matt Prior they have a fabulous player in the making - both as a batsman and as a wicketkeeper,” he added.

“From Matt’s point of view, I think often for a player’s development in order for you to experience real success you have to know what real heartache and disappointment is.

“And Matt has experienced that now so next time he has an opportunity to play for England - and I’m convinced that will happen - he will have that bit of experience behind him.

“It made Matt understand what playing for England means to him and ultimately the bigger picture. I’m certain it won’t be too long before he is knocking on the door again.”