Frost returns to Warks

Tony Frost © Getty Images

Warwickshire have moved quickly to cover the potential loss of wicketkeeper Tim Ambrose on England duty, with the signing of former favourite Tony Frost.

Frost will report for pre-season training at Edgbaston on Monday after retiring at the end of the 2006 season to captain Birmingham League club Knowle and Dorridge.

Warwickshire director of cricket Ashley Giles said: "Tony ticks all the boxes. He can provide good cover should Tim be away for prolonged spells."

Ambrose has been selected for England's two-month tour of New Zealand which is due to finish in Napier on March 25.

Warwickshire’s first match is at home in the LV County Championship against Worcestershire at Edgbaston on April 16.

With New Zealand and South Africa touring England in 2008 Ambrose’s availability could be severely restricted so Giles has moved to cover all scenarios.

"Tim's position in the England set-up is not guaranteed," added Giles. "But, until we know more about his long-term commitments, we now have an experienced and committed replacement, and an accomplished batter, for what is such a crucial position in the side.

"As a club, we want to be positive and support our younger players and we feel that Richard Johnson would benefit from more matches with the second XI before being thrust into first team cricket."