Dan Lawrence looks to use outstanding Lions tour of Australia as a springboard to Ashes success

Dan Lawrence wants to use his outstanding Lions tour of Australia as a springboard to achieving Ashes success.

The Essex batsman was the stand-out performer the last time an England side toured Australia early last year, making 190 against Cricket Australia and then 125 at the MCG in helping the Lions defeat Australia A for the first time. 

Now he is preparing to return with the full England squad next month after an up-and-down start to his Test career that has seen him make three 50s but four ducks in eight games.

Lawrence was the stand-out performer the last time an England side toured Australia last year

‘That Lions tour had a big impact on me,’ said Lawrence. ‘I was desperate to go out there, be relentless and score runs. Thankfully, I did. It  was a great opportunity to not only experience some of the best grounds in Australia but learn to score runs and adapt my game.

‘I know it’s different to how the Ashes will be, but it is nice to have something in the bank.’

Lawrence, 24, still has to prove that his wristy, very modern technique can stand up to the rigours of the ultimate form of game, but is confident he can overcome his inconsistent start in Tests to establish himself in the England side this winter.

The Essex batsman is preparing to return with the full England squad next month Down Under

‘It’s been very frustrating, to be honest,’ said Lawrence, speaking on home territory at the Leyton Urban Cricket Hub for an LV Insurance event to support grassroots cricket. 

‘I’ve had some good performances but they’ve been too few and far between for my liking. I do have confidence that I’m more than good enough to score runs at that level but I’d just like to be more consistent.

‘That will come in time and I’ll put all my effort into being the best cricketer I can be.’