London, Aug 04: Michael Vaughan said batsman Graham Thorpe could be back in the England side for the third Test against South Africa at Trent Bridge. England's selectors will be under pressure to make changes after Vaughan's first match as Test captain ended in a crushing innings and 92 run defeat inside four days Lord's here yesterday.
The result left England 1-0 down in the five Test series with three to play and they were on the backfoot at Lord's almost from the start after being bowled out for 173 in their first innings.
Bringing back Thorpe, a proven world class performer, would appear to strengthen England's middle order and Vaughan denied reports that he had a personal objection to the Surrey left-hander's presence in the side. "If he's right in his mind and personal life then I am sure the selectors will talk about him. He's a fantastic player," said Vaughan.
Thorpe, 34, has not played for England in nearly a year following personal problems brought about by the break-up of his marriage.
He was picked for the 2002-03 tour of Australia only to change his mind before the plane left England. But last month Thorpe, who confirmed he had cancelled his one-day international retirement, insisted he was now ready to resume his England career.
Looking ahead, Vaughan insisted he had no knowledge of reports that fast bowler Darren Gough and former captain Nasser Hussain were about to quit Test cricket. Bureau Report