Batsman Phil Hughes has come to terms with life on the fringe of the Australian cricket team.
Hughes says frustration is pointless and he's content to bide his time waiting for chances to come along in Australia's Test and one-day teams.
The 25-year-old has been summoned to replace injured captain Michael Clarke for Australia's one-day series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates next month.
Clarke was ruled out with an injured hamstring, again opening the door for Hughes, who will remain in the UAE for the two-Test series against the Pakistanis.
"Over the last few years, being in and out of the side can be tough to deal with," Hughes said on Wednesday.
"But I'm a realist.
"I know the guys in front of me and how well the Test side is going - just to be that spare batter and around the squad, that has always been my plan over the last 12 months.
"If a spot comes up I feel very ready to take it ... but I'm happy to bide my time."
Since his debut in 2009, Hughes has come and gone from the Test team three times - but he only blames himself.
"It can be quite challenging when you're in and out of the side," he said.
"But I understand that when I was in there, I wasn't consistent enough.
"That is something I have spoken to Boof (coach Darren Lehmann) about. Going forward it's about consistency and looking to score as many runs as possible.
"That is something that I have been working on and I'm probably doing it better over the last 12 months than the previous years."
Hughes said his prolific run-scoring for South Australia and Australia A had helped put cricket in perspective.
"It has really calmed me down and relaxed me, runs behind you always helps your confidence," he said.
"I won't be putting pressure on myself, that is something I have never done.
"If I get an opportunity, I will go out there and just relax and enjoy playing for my country.
"And that is what I have always done. But I know I had to be more consistent."
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