An off spin bowler and lower-middle order batsman, he was a member of England's Test team for their tours to Pakistan and India in 2005/06.

It was not until September 2005, after an impressive season with Hampshire, that he was recalled to the England squad for their tour of Pakistan when they were looking for more spinners in addition to Ashley Giles.

With the continuing unavailability through injury of Ashley Giles, Udal started the 2006 season in contention with Monty Panesar for England's spinning berth.

He was not, however picked for the opening three-Test series against Sri Lanka, nor for the Ashes tour of Australia which started in November 2006.

Adam Gilchrist was appointed on an interim basis and led the county for five Twenty20 matches and a tourist fixture until his departure on 24 June.