Vaughan keen to play against New Zealand

Buoyed by the recent win over Australia and needing to beat the Black Caps to reach the tri-series final, the skipper is set to make a return.

England captain Michael Vaughan is set to make an unexpected return for England in Tuesday's crucial triangular series match against New Zealand in Brisbane.

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Vaughan seemed certain to miss the rest of the one-day series, but with the English buoyed by Friday's win over Australia and needing to beat the Black Caps to reach the tri-series final, he is out to prove his fitness after a hamstring strain.

England will have a net session in Brisbane on Monday morning and provided he emerges unscathed, Vaughan will declare himself available for just his third game of the series.

"I have come through four or five days of solid running and as long as I get through tomorrow's practice I will be available for selection," Vaughan said.

"I thought I could have played on Friday, but it was a precaution not to."

Only last Wednesday, England wicketkeeper Paul Nixon earned a rebuke from team management after declaring Vaughan's comeback series was all but over.

Vaughan last played in England's win over New Zealand in Hobart in what was just his second one-day international since knee surgery.

He said Tuesday's game was a big one for his side. "We want to try and achieve that consistent performance on a regular basis," he said.