Andy Caddick has been cleared to play for England in the First Test against Australia at Edgbaston a week on Thursday.

Caddick had previously sustained a hairline fracture of the knuckle on the little finger of his left hand after being hit by a delivery from Brett Lee at The AMP Oval last week. Although the injury has not entirely healed it will not inconvenience his bowling and he will wear extra protection when batting.

Caddick's return will be a major boost to the England team after the disappointments of the NatWest Series. His new ball partnership with Darren Gough is predicted to be a crucial ingredient in England's attempts to win back the Ashes.

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