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ENGLAND have taken a big gamble on Paul Collingwood's fitness by including the all-rounder in the 12-man squad for this week's first Test against New Zealand at Lord's. The hosts were dealt a hefty blow just 24 hours earlier when Andrew Flintoff's return to the side was ruled out because of a side strain.
That means England will once again be without their talisman all-rounder, who is on the comeback trail from yet another ankle operation. With the Lancashire man injured, Collingwood'sA all-round skills are vital and the one-day skipper has been picked despite shoulder and back injuries. National selector Geoff Miller said: "Despite being faced with some injury concerns we've named what we think is an extremely strong England Test squad.
"Paul Collingwood received treatment to his right shoulder on Friday and we now need to see how he responds to that treatment before we have a definitive idea of his availability. "At this stage it's too early to say whether he will definitely play as he will be reassessed in the lead up. I know Paul and the England medical team will be doing everything to ensure he's given the best chance of taking his place in the side but should he not be fit to play we have options available.
"Andrew Flintoff was obviously unavailable for selection, which is a shame for Andrew and for England but I know he'll continue to work hard with Lancashire medical team and be in contention in due course."
Matthew Hoggard has won his place back after being dropped following a poor first Test in New Zealand. England hit back from 1-0 down to win the series 2-1 after axing Hoggard and paceman Steve Harmison. And although they have decided to call on the Yorkshire seamer, there is still no place for Harmison.
Miller said: "Clearly there is very healthy competition for places, which can only be good for England. The selection of this squad maintains a position of continuity from the winter. I had a chat with Steve the other day and explained the situation. We need Steve to be bowling, as he can bowl, at 90 miles-an-hour and if he is doing that, getting wickets and his confidence back we will reassess it.
"At this moment he needs those performances for Durham and we are allowing him to do that."
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