Nottinghamshire stars Graeme Swann and Stuart Broad could be in line to make their Test debut for England on Sunday with seamer Matthew Hoggard almost certain to be ruled out through injury.
Hoggard was unable to bowl or field in the second innings of the first Test against Sri Lanka with a back problem.
In his absence England coach Peter Moores could turn to fast bowler Steve Harmison - himself only just returned from injury - or opt to strengthen the batting line-up by picking either Swann or Broad.
Broad would offer a different kind of pace bowling to that of swing merchants Ryan Sidebottom and James Anderson with his extra height and bounce, while Swann’s off-breaks could be the perfect complement to Monty Panesar’s left-arm spin.
Nottinghamshire Director of Cricket Mick Newell said: “Both Stuart and Graeme will have a chance of playing but realistically you would expect Harmison to be the first in line.
“I’m sure the selectors will look at it very closely - and their extra ability with the bat could make a difference.”
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