Ian Bell dismisses thoughts of Test retirement

Ian Bell has confirmed that he wants to continue playing Test cricket despite suggestions that he was considering retirement. The 33-year-old batsman is one of the most experienced members of England's Test side but has endured a difficult year, averaging 24.29 with one century.

Bell said that he had discussed his future with the team management and his family after England's Ashes victory and decided he still had the "hunger and desire" to play on. He has confirmed his limited-overs retirement, however. Bell is England's leading ODI run-scorer but has not been involved since the World Cup.

"I spoke with Trevor Bayliss, Paul Farbrace and Alastair Cook in the aftermath of the Oval Test. We had a really good talk and I was as honest as I could be. Deep down though, I think I probably knew I wasn't ready to call time on my England Test career. I still have that hunger and desire. The day you don't, is the day you step away.