The six-foot-five spinner has been selected on the back of some impressive performances for Sussex, taking over from retired Mushtaq Ahmed as the county's number one slow bowler, and the 22-year-old is delighted with the opportunity.

"It's a bit of a cliche but it's a fairy tale," he said. "I've been waiting in the wings for a few seasons and worked really hard over the winter so I'm just really excited about it."

Rayner signed with Sussex in 2005 and made an instant impact, becoming the first man since 1920 to hit a debut century. He has taken 51 first-class wickets for an average of 35.37 as well as averaging just under 20 runs with the bat.

Despite his progress, Rayner also admitted that his inclusion came as a real shock and says he is determined to make the most of his chance.

"We were up at Durham and the coach (Mark Robinson) called me into his room. I thought I was in trouble - that's what I'm usually called in for - but then he gave me the news.

"Dave Parsons (England and Wales Cricket Board's performance director) phoned me the next day. I was quite taken aback by it all. Until you're actually told about it, you have that glimmer of hope.

"But I wasn't expecting it. It's a great privilege. It's a good environment to be in and I'm just going to tackle it full on and try and make the most out of it."

The off-spinner embarks on the month-long tour with Sussex team-mate Matt Prior and Rayner says he has been seeking the wicket-keeper's advice.

"I've been badgering him with a few questions and he's been more than happy to give me pointers," he said, "but everyone has been really supportive."

National selector Geoff Miller, said, "The England performance squad is designed to allow Peter Moores (England coach) to closely monitor the development of international players and better prepare them for the demands of the international game."

Another of its functions is to provide cover for any possible injuries that may occur in the first team, but Rayner, who plays for Eastbourne Cricket Club, admits the thought of an international first team cap has never seriously crossed his mind.

"It's never dawned on me, getting in the full team," he said. "This season my main goal was just to be a County regular, everything else is a bonus.

"I'll be happy to keep getting picked for Sussex," he added. "I want to concentrate on keeping my feet on the ground."