London: The England selectors included fit-again seamer Tim Bresnan in the squad of 12 for the first Test against India starting at the Lord`s from July 21.
The squad that will be led by Test captain Andrew Strauss has only one change in the form of Bresnan in place of Middlesex fast bowler Steven Finn. Finn was a part of the victorious England squad that beat Sri Lanka 1-0 in their last Test series.
Bresnan who was suffering from calf-muscle injury thus makes a comeback to the Test squad for the first time since the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney last January."This is clearly a highly-anticipated series between two of the world`s top Test-playing nations and I know the England team is certainly looking forward to the challenge of taking on the number one ranked team in Test cricket," national selector Geoff Miller was quoted as saying in an ECB press release.
He further added, "Following the successful Test and ODI series against Sri Lanka we`re pleased to be able to include Tim Bresnan in the Test squad after his excellent return from a calf muscle injury."
Miller stated that Bresnan`s inclusion will add further depth to the attack."Tim adds further bite to our pace attack along with James Anderson, Chris Tremlett and Stuart Broad, who has greatly benefitted from getting overs and wickets under his belt for Nottinghamshire during the week."
"Steven Finn has also benefitted from his time at county level in recent weeks and continues to press hard for Test selection. It`s very pleasing to see the depth of quality around our bowling attack particularly with a challenging four-match Test series on the horizon," Miller added.
England squad
Andrew Strauss (c), Alastair Cook, Jonathan Trott, Kevin Pietersen, Ian Bell, Eoin Morgan, Matt Prior(wk), James Anderson, Graeme Swann, Chris Tremlett, Stuart Broad, Tim Bresnan.
PTI
First Published: Sunday, July 17, 2011, 15:30