Thursday 15 November 2012 06:37, UK
England captain Alastair Cook has confirmed that Steve Finn will miss the opening Test against India, which starts in Ahmedabad on Thursday.
Cook resented accusations that Finn's replacement would be selected from the also-rans. He told Sky Sports News: "I wouldn't call them back-up bowlers, they're all vying for a place to play in this XI, to be lucky enough to play for England. "They've all worked hard to get used to these conditions and as selectors we've got a tough decision to make." Cook admitted he had not been out to check on the condition of the wicket at Ahmedabad since yesterday morning. "Wickets change a lot in 24 hours," he added. "Yesterday it looked quite a dry wicket and I think it's been relaid so not much first-class cricket has been played on it."
