Giles gets all-clear for Ashes

30 October 2006

Ashley Giles is back to full fitness after recovering from hip problems © Getty Images

The ECB has announced that Ashley Giles has been passed fit to take part in England’s forthcoming Ashes tour.

The Warwickshire left-arm spinner joined England’s one-day squad in India for the ICC Champions Trophy in order to continue his rehabilitation from hip surgery, and returned to the UK on Sunday.

England team physiotherapist Kirk Russell said: “Ashley has been through a tough time but he worked extremely hard in India and the medical team is very pleased with the progress he has made.

“He bowled for extended periods in the nets, completed all the drills we set him without any reaction and is now fully fit and able to take his place in the Ashes squad.”

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.

“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.”

Giles said: “It’s been a long, hard road back for me and I am grateful to the staff at the National Cricket Centre who helped with my rehabilitation and to the England team management for giving me the opportunity to go to India and work with the one-day squad.

“It was always my goal to be fit in time for the Ashes tour and now that the moment has arrived I am really looking forward to being part of the Test squad again.”