England name 13-man squad for first Ashes test

As expected Nick Compton was dropped from the England squad for the first Test match against Australia that begins on July 10 at Trent Bridge.

Batsman Kevin Pietersen, fast bowler Stuart broad and spinner Graeme Swann have all made a comeback into the national team after having completely recovered from injuries.

Joe Root is expected to partner Alastair Cook at the top of the order while Steven Finn and Tim Bresnan will have to battle it out for the third pace-bowler spot. Graham Onions is least likely to get a place in starting line up.

England selector Geoff Miller said: “This is an incredibly exciting period of cricket coming up against Australia and we know we will need to play to our full potential throughout the entire Ashes series if we are to retain the Ashes.

“We are satisfied with our preparations so far ahead of the first Test, with both Graeme Swann and Stuart Broad recovering well from the injuries they picked up earlier this week.

“The squad will continue their hard work over the next few days and will be eagerly anticipating the start of the series on Wednesday at Trent Bridge.”

England squad: Alastair Cook (capt), Joe Root, Jonathan Trott, Kevin Pietersen, Ian Bell, Jonny Bairstow, Matt Prior (wk), Tim Bresnan, Stuart Broad, Graeme Swann, Steven Finn, James Anderson, Graham Onions.

Source: BBC