Anderson returns to squad for fifth Test

James Anderson has been included in a 14-man England squad for the final Investec Ashes Test at the Kia Oval but will not be risked unless he has completely recovered from the side injury which ruled him out of the Trent Bridge encounter.

Anderson replaces Mark Footitt, the Derbyshire left-arm quick, in the squad while Liam Plunkett is retained among the pace options.

Adam Lyth is also set to be given another chance at the top order despite a lean series in which he has scored just 86 runs at 12.28. There had been a suggestion that Alex Hales, the Nottinghamshire batsman who opens for England in limited-overs cricket, would be a replacement but the selectors have resisted change.

I think England would be foolish to select Jimmy for the final Test. Let him rest up. There is no sense in re-aggravating the injury. These sentiments were echoed by Mikey Holding and Botham yesterday. This also gives the selectors a chance to see more of both Wood and Finn.

If a bowler comes in a bowler has to go out i reckon someone is going to be disappointed and I fear it will be Woods or even Finn.It is pointless to bring him for the final test and i don't see them playing Anderson,Broad,Woods,Finn and Stokes.A 4 pronged will normally suffice


Oh wait why the hell do they wanna change a winning combination  :-\

If Jimmy's fit, he is the first bowler down on the team sheet, especially when playing in England. I just don't think he is fit and seems pointless even risking him. Plus, it wouldn't be a bad idea to see more of Wood and Finn in tandem. Unfortunately, neither Jimmy or Broad are getting any younger.

Haha for that instance,anyone
We would love a young Zak/Kapil dev/Kumble etc etc..Oh wait i forgot sachin,the pride of our nation

I reckon they have pulled in him sensing some trouble in the squad.Maybe some one is injured already and they didn't want to disclose.

Well the English team would be very happy to have back their best swing bowler in the final match. The English bowlers dominated Australia last match and with the inclusion of Anderson it will only get tougher for Australia.

England have a lot of cricket ahead of them over the next 12 months, I think it would be foolish to play Jimmy in what is really a meaningless match. Let him rest up and get fit for the upcoming tours of the UAE and South Africa.

Jimmy returned to practice on Monday and he seems keen to play on Thursday. I still think this is a bit of a mistake, especially as he admitted he was a bit sore and was still feeling something on some of his deliveries. I'd rather he heal fully and be fit for the tour of the UAE.

If Jimmy is fit, Mark Wood would be the most likely candidate to miss out. I was hoping that Adil Rashid might get a game, the Oval has been receptive to spin in recent years, but not sure England would opt for two spinners in the side.

Exactly dillinger.I too feel its a mistake to disturb a winning combination.
Was he declared fit ? I mean officially.?

The Follow On has been enforced !