Ravi Bopara has replaced Jonny Bairstow in the 13-man England Test squad that will face South Africa in the upcoming series.
The Essex batsman has been in impressive form and most recently topped the run-scoring charts in the one-day series against Australia.
Chief selector Geoff Miller told Sky Sports News: "It's a great opportunity for him, he's in good form and has justified his selection."
The first Test of three begins this Thursday at The Oval.
England squad in full: A Strauss (C), J Anderson, I Bell, R Bopara, T Bresnan, S Broad, A Cook, S Finn, G Onions, K Pietersen, M Prior, G Swann, J Trott
