Finn ruled out of second Test after setback
ENGLAND fast bowler Steven Finn has been ruled out of the second Test against India on Friday after aggravating a thigh injury.
Finn picked up the injury during a warm-up match earlier in the tour and subsequently missed England’s disastrous first Test defeat in Ahmedabad.
England lacked potency in their bowling attack and Finn’s extra height and pace could have been a major asset, especially as fellow bowlers James Anderson, Tim Bresnan and Stuart Broad took just one wicket between them.
Instead England coach Andy Flower confirmed that Finn will be absent from duty until he has fully recovered.
“Steven has been working hard to get back to full fitness,” said Flower. “He has unfortunately hurt his leg again and is having another scan. We don’t think he’s got any structural damage, but it would be careless to suggest that he might play the second Test.”
Finn will have another scan today and may play for England’s performance programme team in a three-day match next week.
“If he comes through that well, he’ll be available for the third and fourth Tests,” Flower added.
Another confirmed absentee for England in the second Test is batsman Ian Bell, who has flown home to be with his family following the birth of his son.