Swann to fly to Sri Lanka

England consider spin twins for one-day series

By Rob Lancaster   Last updated: 11th September 2007

Swann Graeme Northamptonshire Apr 07

Swann: Extra spinner

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Nottinghamshire off-spinner Graeme Swann has been included in England's squad for the one-day series in Sri Lanka.

The 28-year-old is the one surprise name in a 15-man party that also includes Sussex all-rounder Luke Wright.

Swann has not featured for his country since making his one and only limited overs appearance against South Africa back in 2000.

However, he has enjoyed an excellent domestic campaign, picking up wickets and also proving a useful pinch-hitter at the top of the order.

Wright is handed a place after he made an instant impression in the NatWest Series against India with a half-century on debut.

Series success

Although England lost that day at The Brit Oval, they did end up winning the seventh and deciding match at Lord's on Saturday to clinch a 4-3 victory.

"We have retained Luke in the squad to tour Sri Lanka following his impressive debut last week and made one change to the original squad named for the NatWest Series against India with Graeme Swann replacing Chris Tremlett," said chairman of selectors David Graveney.

"The local conditions in Sri Lanka are, of course, favourable to spin bowling and Graeme's inclusion in the squad will give us the option of fielding two spinners in our starting line-up if required.

"The team's series win on Saturday was particularly pleasing as our chances of beating India had been written off by many people before the NatWest Series began.

"The selectors were delighted with many aspects of the team's performance including Paul Collingwood's development as captain, Ian Bell's batting, the energy shown in the field and the significant contributions made by the newer members of the squad; Ravi Bopara, Stuart Broad, Dimitri Mascarenhas, Owais Shah and Luke Wright."

Injury doubts

Graveney admitted the squad could be subject to change with both Bopara (thumb) and Sidebottom (side) currently out of action through injury.

"Ravi and Ryan have both been named in the squad subject to fitness," he added.

"Ravi is currently making good progress with his recovery from a thumb injury and the plan is for Ryan to regain full match fitness by playing for Nottinghamshire nearer to the end of the domestic season."