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Spinner Ashley Giles has been passed fit for the Ashes series. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced Giles was fully recovered from a second hip operation.

Giles spent time in India with the England one-day squad and physio Kirk Russell said: “He completed all the drills without any reaction.” Giles said: “It was always my goal to be fit in time for the Ashes and I am really looking forward to being part of the Test squad again.”

The 33-year-old has not played for almost a year because of hip and groin problems and faces a battle with Monty Panesar for the spinner’s spot in the team as England defend their Ashes crown.

Chairman of selectors David Graveney said: “It’s excellent news that Ashley has come through the final stage of his rehabilitation programme and is available again for selection.” Giles took 10 wickets in the 2005 series, which England won 2-1, and averaged 19 with the bat. “He played an important role in helping England regain the Ashes in 2005 and I am sure that he will be keen to make an impact in Australia this winter,” added Graveney.
Source:The News