Same again for England

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The selectors' options for change had been severely reduced this week with both all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, seamer Matthew Hoggard and other fringe players like Stuart Broad and Sajid Mahmood being ruled out through injury.

Ian Bell has, however, recovered from the back spasms which restricted his participation to last week's innings victory at Headingley and has been included in the squad although he will test his fitness in Warwickshire's Friends Provident Trophy match on Sunday.

It left the selectors little choice but to choose an unchanged line-up, although James Anderson will join them at Old Trafford on Wednesday night from Lancashire's LV County Championship match at Durham to provide cover for late injuries or illnesses.

Nottinghamshire's Ryan Sidebottom has again been included after his triumphant return to Test cricket, claiming eight wickets in his first Test appearance for six years at Headingley, although Hoggard could be back for the final Test at Chester-le-Street starting on June 15.

"Matthew has worked hard to overcome the injury, but ultimately time was against him," confirmed chairman of selectors David Graveney.

"We're prepared to give him as long as he needs to ensure the injury does not become a longer-term problem. We are hopeful that with further rehabilitation he will come into calculations for the fourth Test in Durham."

Graveney has also urged Lancashire all-rounder Flintoff to take inspiration from the return of captain Michael Vaughan as he attempts to battle back from a third operation in three years on his troublesome left ankle.

Flintoff underwent surgery on Friday and is hopeful of returning before the end of the summer and Graveney believes Vaughan, who returned to Test cricket after over a year on the sidelines with knee trouble, should act as proof of what can be achieved.

"Andrew successfully underwent surgery on Friday and following rehabilitation and strengthening work we are hopeful he can play a part for England at some stage later in the summer," added Graveney.