Paul Collingwood will miss England's forthcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh because of a shoulder injury, and Stuart Broad is to be rested in favour of a "strengthening programme". Collingwood, the World Twenty20-winning captain, and Broad, the pace bowler, were both omitted from the 12-man squad announced yesterday for the first Test at Lord's on Thursday. A notable surprise in the squad was the inclusion of Eoin Morgan. The 23-year-old Middlesex batsman has become a cornerstone of England's limited-overs teams, but was thought likely to have to wait for his chance in Tests.
The squad also includes Steven Finn, the Middlesex fast bowler, who retains his place in the 12. Collingwood's absence has created an opportunity to fast-track Morgan, with Jonathan Trott remaining in the picture despite his mediocre performances with the bat on the winter tours of South Africa and Bangladesh. There are also places for Tim Bresnan and Ajmal Shahzad, the Yorkshire pace-bowling all-rounders, and James Anderson, the returning fast bowler, but none for Ryan Sidebottom, despite his impressive efforts with the ball during England's successful World Twenty20 campaign.
Matt Prior retains the wicketkeeper position ahead of Craig Kieswetter. Collingwood will undergo rehabilitation for a left shoulder injury which developed during the World T20. Scans this week revealed he will require treatment, with a specialist review to follow . Broad, meanwhill will be given an opportunity to rest. Geoff Miller, one of England's national selectors, said: "There's a need for Stuart to undertake an intensive strengthening programme before an arduous summer and a busy winter, and the next three weeks have been identified as the ideal period for this programme.
"We believe we've selected an exciting squad - and with Paul Collingwood and Stuart Broad taking no part in this series, the opportunity arises for a number of younger players to make a mark at Test level." * PA
