London, July 3 Wicketkeeper Matt Prior believes his conversion from wannabe sledger to England's Mr. Cool can help secure Ashes glory this summer.

The wicketkeeper-batsman copped some serious stick for his motor mouth antics when he first broke into the Test team in 2007, reports The Sun.

But having spent 2008 out of the side, the Sussex ace has regained his place through his improved glove work and run-scoring prowess.

He told Sun Sport: "I think first and foremost my sledging was blown hugely out of proportion. There were things reported at the time that I didn't say. But you learn from it too and I have grown up.

What's said on the field doesn't matter - it's about runs, wickets and catches."

With his place assured on the back of an ability to score big runs at No.6, Prior knows his wicket keeping will be under the microscope.

"People will always have their opinions but I know I'm working as hard as I can and have the backing of my coach, captain and team-mates," he said. (ANI)