KENT batsman Rob Key is hoping his inclusion in the England Academy side to train in Australia this winter will smooth his rise through the international ranks and help realise his dream of playing Test cricket.

The opener from East Dulwich helped England under-19s lift the Youth World Cup in 1998 and toured South Africa with England A the following winter, so his inclusion in the inaugural 15-man academy squad that travels to Adelaide on October 25 should not have come as a surprise.

"Kent nominated three or four players for an academy place, every county did the same, so although it’s still a nice surprise I would have been disappointed had I not gone," said 22-year-old Key.

"I think the selectors are looking to fast-track people from the academy into the full England side, so if I can come back from this with a good report it could do wonders for my career.

"It’s certainly more important than playing under-19s because these are the best young players in county cricket whereas Under-19s is the top players from 2nd team cricket.

"It replaces the A Tour and as such will put more emphasis on improving the skills of younger players.

"For that reason alone it’s a more worthwhile process because I’m going to have four months of facing some of the quickest and best young fast bowlers in Australia and work with some of the top batting coaches, so its going to be very valuable."