James Anderson recalled to England squad for 5th Ashes Test

James Anderson on the sidelines of the 4^th Ashes Test

England’s 14-man squad for the fifth Investec Ashes Test against Australia has been announced, with pace bowler James Anderson recalled after having missed the fourth Test with a side strain.

Anderson’s swing claimed 7 wickets in the Birmingham Test, but he had to go off after picking up his injury. He is continuing his recovery from a side strain and will be monitored closely in the build-up to the final Test in the series.

The hosts have already taken an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series, but the 5^th Test is anything but inconsequential. A lot of pride is at stake for the Aussies, and it is possible that Anderson might have a part to play in the finale to this year’s classic clash.

The match begins on Thursday, August 20 at the Kia Oval.

England want a strong finish to Ashes 2015: ECB selector

National selector, James Whitaker, said: “On behalf of the selectors I would like to congratulate Alastair Cook, Trevor Bayliss and all involved in the last month. Regaining the Ashes is a superb achievement and is down to 18 months of hard work from the players and coaches and support from a lot of people since the last series in Australia.

“The contributions of so many different players at key times throughout the series so far is hugely encouraging.

“James Anderson is continuing to improve and with 10 days to go before the Test may be able to play a part at the Oval, although with the series won we will not be taking any chances given the cricket we have in the coming months.

“I have no doubt the players will want a strong finish to the series and we can look forward to another entertaining Test match.”

The squad: Alastair Cook (capt), Adam Lyth, Ian Bell, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad, Mark Wood, Steve Finn, Jimmy Anderson, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid.