UNIVERSITY officials hope to help a cricket-playing student take up a coveted place on England's winter tour while maintaining his studies.

James Foster yesterday became Durham University's first undergraduate to earn a full international call-up since famous fast bowler Frank Tyson won an England place against Australia in 1954.

A product of the university's Cricket Centre of Excellence, the 21-year-old wicket-keeper was named in squads for England's tours to Zimbabwe, India and New Zealand under the leadership of his Essex county colleague, former Durham University graduate Nasser Hussain.

Foster is about to start his third and final year of a BA degree course in sport in the community, which clashes with much of England's tour schedule.

A university spokesman said last night: "It is a rare and admirable achievement for a student to represent his or her country in sport.

"We congratulate James Foster on his selection for the winter tour and wish the whole team every success."

Foster, "thrilled" at receiving yesterday's call from chairman of selectors, former Durham skipper David Graveney, said: "I've spoken to the university and I'm going to combine both.

"I'm determined to finish my degree, but it's too great an opportunity to miss."